subject: Violent Protests Threatens F1 Race In Bahrain [print this page] An F1 race is one of the most exciting sports event in the world today. Watched by over 500 million fans around the world, the planned Sunday's Formula 1 race in the Gulf state of Bahrain is the center of a new Middle East protest.
Many politicians and democracy campaigners around the world are calling the authorities of Bahrain to cancel the F1 race. The brewing political unrest in Bahrain is fermented by human rights abuses supposedly committed by the Sunni-led monarchy in the country. Opposition groups saw the F1 race as a publicity stunt by Bahrain's government.
The protesters are mostly coming from the Shiite population of the country seeking equality. They are now using social networking sites to post their calls daily for more protests countrywide.
Violent clashes between protesters and government security forces in the capital, Manama, prompted the ruling Sunni elite to ban protests in the city.
Protesters are hoping that their protests in timing with the popular F1 race will further their cause and show the world how inadequate the promised reforms by the government to end human rights violations.
A report by Amnesty International regarding the human rights situation in Bahrain has confirmed the protesters' claim.
Last year, many Shiite activists were arrested by the government due to allegedly plotting an overthrow of the royal family. Other sporting heroes of the country stands accused of being traitors due to similar cases. Three players in the Bahraini national soccer squad were arrested last year together with about 150 sportsmen, administrators, and women. There are no definite number how many remain in jail at the moment.
The government insists that they are part of a violent, illegal protests since last year.
With the looming F1 race, organizers, participants of the race, and fans from around the world wonder whether protesters will threaten the security in or near the circuit. A Molotov cocktail exploded last week near a car transporting the F1 team from India. While no one was reported injured, a team member and a contractor for Force India decided to return home despite assurances by officials that the country is safe.
FIA, the Formula 1 governing body confirmed that the planned race will push through amidst the protests. Drivers try to distance themselves from violence and are continuing their preparation for the said race.
Economically, the race will cost Bahrain an estimated $64 million but the island kingdom hopes to get a better return of investment up to $800 million from tourism and other benefits. The race is viewed as a way for Bahrain to raise its international prestige just like hosting popular golf and tennis tournaments.
However, news of violent clashes in the capital and near the race venue can turn the plight of the race for bad for the country. Last year's F1 race here was cancelled due to similar situation.
