Bahrain bigwigs: Race will be on

ORGANISERS of the controversial Bahrain Grand Prix expect this year’s race to go ahead as planned — despite calls for the race to be scrapped.

The 2011 race was abandoned following violent clashes between police and anti-government protestors.
And last year members of the Force India and Sauber teams were caught up in the crossfire while traveling from the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).
However, track bosses say strict security measures will be in place.
And they are reporting improved ticket sales compared to last year with exclusive Paddock Club sales double that of what were expected.
Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the BIC, said: “We are delighted with how the preparations are going.
“Ticket sales to date have been extremely encouraging and are well ahead of last year and in line with 2010, which was one of our busiest years ever.
“In addition, corporate hospitality boxes look set to be sold out and Paddock Club tickets are proving to be more popular than ever.
“Whilst of course the focus will be on what we hope will be an enthralling F1 race, we have attracted some major international stars as part of the entertainment package.
“As with any major international sporting event, in the days leading up to the big day the team will focus on ensuring that all the final detail around logistics, hospitality and security are firmly in place.
“We believe that the race this year will attract more support than ever and are certainly confident in delivering a world class race weekend for F1 fans.”
Meanwhile, Labour MP Richard Burden is expected to call on Formula One’s governing body to rethink their plans to stage the race on Sunday 21 April.
Burden is part of the House of Commons International Development Committee and urged the FIA to cancel last year’s grand prix.