The crown prince, described by diplomatic sources as the main hope for
democratic reform in this strife-torn corner of the Arabian Peninsula,
claimed that the regime was committed to redressing its civil rights issues.
Next year marks the 10th instalment of Formula
One in Bahrain and, while the official race-day attendance of 28,000
would rank among the lowest on the calendar, the grand prix retains its
status as the most controversial.
Ecclestone had few qualms about bringing the sport here in 2004, in the
knowledge that the country’s grateful rulers were prepared to pay £26
million a year for hosting rights, and has brushed aside human rights
concerns ever since by insisting that sport and politics should not mix.
But such a defence has been difficult to reconcile during the past six days
with the spectacle of opposition marches in Manama, and more violent clashes
in outlying Shia areas.
In the village of Sanabis, west of the capital, police have used tear gas
against dissidents and anti-F1 graffiti has grown increasingly prevalent.
Government officials are adamant that change is gradually coming to Bahrain,
with justice minister Khalid Al-Khalifa countering allegations of police
brutality by stressing the kingdom’s endorsement of the due process of law.
They have been eager, too, to represent the presence of F1 as a unifying
influence. Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa argued: “Let us build
upon the platform that we have and celebrate this event with Bahrainis who
are really passionate.”
While the race itself is inaccessible to all but the wealthiest in Bahrain,
the mainstream opposition movement, Al-Wefaq, have emphasised their support
for the grand prix.
Such a stance would not resonate with more militant protesters in Shia areas,
even if there is a manifest desire to exploit the kingdom’s one week of
exposure on the global stage for wider benefit.
Until it offers demonstrable proof of doing so, Bahrain will struggle to
escape its casting as the pariah at the F1 party.