Bahrain sets sights on successful F1 return

Bahrain has turned its attention to hosting a highly successful return to the formula one calendar early next season.

After civil strife in the island Kingdom led to the postponement of its March 13 opener this year, F1 ultimately decided to skip Bahrain altogether in 2011 but has scheduled next year’s first race of the calendar at the Sakhir circuit.

Track chief executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa said he thinks the situation will increase demand for Bahrain’s F1 return next March 11.

"We are even thinking of expanding and building more grandstands," he told the Gulf Daily News.

Shaikh Salman said it was "very disappointing" that Bahrain could not host its race this year.

"Nothing to do with Bahrain, but there was an internal battle as well between the FIA and Bernie Ecclestone and the international media obviously played a part," he said. "Bahrain took a decision that it is better to wait until next year and I personally agree with that and look forward to having everyone here next year."