BAHRAIN- MORE THAN JUST A RACE.

With all the talk surrounding the Bahrain Grand Prix it only makes sense that I do some kind of post on the matter. I'm sure you've heard all about the controversy surrounding the race (if not I recommend you read this handy BBC article! It has information on the questions raised about the Grand Prix and an update on the situation in the country.) and there are plenty of bloggers and news sites out there that can describe what's going on. Therefore, I don't want to simply tell you why people are talking about it, I just want to offer my thoughts on the situation.

The mass human rights abuses that are taking place in Bahrain right now are plain and clear for us all to see. And why are innocent people being brutally targeted by their Government? For simply demanding their right to live in a democracy! Many of us are blessed with this privilege already and so it's difficult for us to place ourselves in the mind of a Bahraini (or Syrian, Libyan etc) citizen and it is difficult for us to show our support of their cause. However, one organisation that does have the power and influence to affect the way people view a situation is Formula 1. It is in a unique position as a sport that is so closely tied with politics and other world issues but it should view this position as a positive. Should F1 be going to a country and helping the government make money with which it will orchestrate the murder of its own civilians? The answer is simple. The answer is no.

(Image taken from arabianbusiness.com) 

The teams and drivers only seem to be concerned with safety and whilst this is an important aspect, this issue is deeper than motor racing. It is about showing an alliance with the Bahraini people and refusing to hold a Grand Prix alongside a brutal regime.

So as the world awaits a final decision on this Grand Prix it is important to remember that even if the race is cancelled the problems in Bahrain continue. My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Bahrain and it is clear that they too don't want this race to go ahead (see Youtube for some anti-F1 protests).

(Image taken from blogs.aljazeera.net)

I didn't foresee myself getting so 'deep' on this blog but one of the great things about Formula 1 is the impact it has on the world and it is definitely more than just a sport.

Aqsa