High security for F1 Bahrain GP

The inaugural F1 Gulf Air Bahrain GP over April 2-4 will be the subject of extensive security measures in the Middle East nation. A spokesperson for the Ministry of the Interior said: "We recognise that this is the largest sporting festival to have taken place in the Middle East and we've received the cooperation of all the relevant governmental agencies. The plan includes all aspects of security from low-level vandalism to national disasters and international terrorism."

Mar 25, 2004, 5:57 PM

The number of patrols in key areas throughout the kingdom has been quadrupled, fast-response teams from various security agencies will be placed on call 24 hours a day at strategic locations, civil defence teams will be at their highest level of readiness during the week of the race, and the National Guard will be mobilised to protect certain key facilities and to contribute to the protection outside the confines of the new Bahrain International Circuit.

The spokesperson concluded: "The kingdom of Bahrain takes the issue of national security as a matter of paramount importance and visitors should rest assured that their wellbeing is being cared for from the moment that they arrive on the island. Hosting the first Grand Prix in the Middle East is of special importance to the people of Bahrain. We want everyone who visits to enjoy their stay with us and to understand that the security plans will be as unobtrusive as possible."