Bahrain Grand Prix can 'help unify nation'

The president of the Automobile Federation of Bahrain has called on Formula One to help unify his country, although he is unable to offer concrete guarantees over safety.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Isa Al Khalifa, who is also one of the 26 members of the FIA's World Motor Sport Council, feels Bahrain will emerge a stronger nation following next month's grand prix. Last year's race was called off following the deaths of a number of anti-government protesters.

"I know all eyes are on us, but I feel there is a buzz going on in the country to rally around Formula One," Al Khalifa said. "So my message to Formula One is 'be part of unifying my country'".