HRH Shaikh Salman hails F 1 Rolex Sakhir Grand Prix 2020

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, praised the efforts, preparation and commitment of all Bahrainis who have risen up to the challenge to secure achievements, in line with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad.

HRH the Crown Prince was speaking last night following the success of the Formula 1 Rolex Sakhir Grand Prix 2020 at Bahrain International Circuit, won by Racing Point’s Sergio Perez.

HRH the Crown Prince said: “The Kingdom’s tremendous success in hosting two Formula 1 GPs on successive weekends reflects the collective effort and dedication once again on display from the citizens of Bahrain.”

HRH Prince Salman extended his gratitude to all who have contributed to the success of yesterday’s race. He also expressed his appreciation to the frontline health workers, first responders and their families who attended the race, noting their relentless efforts in safeguarding the health of the Kingdom’s community.

Following the race, Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) Chairman Arif Rahimi commented: “At the end of an extraordinary two weeks of racing, I congratulate Sergio Perez and Racing Point for their victory today, wrapping up our unique double-header weekend.

“It has been a great honour to welcome frontline heroes, first responders and their families to BIC over the past two weekends, as we recognise their efforts in keeping Bahrain safe.

“For those watching at home, I hope that Formula 1, not just in Bahrain but races around the world this season, have been a welcome distraction and a source of entertainment.

“None of this would have been possible without the support and partnership that we have with F1 and the FIA. It is an incredible achievement for the sport to be able to host so many races, in different locations, in a safe manner over the last five months. We wish them, together with all the teams and support personnel, the very best in the final race of the season.”

BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa added: “The range of emotions over the last two weekends is something that I shall never forget.

“We’ve had the pride of welcoming frontline heroes to share the F1 experience with us; the shock of Roman Grosjean’s horrific accident; the relief when he walked away from the incident; the compassion of his emotional visit to BIC a couple of days later to meet the people who helped save his life; the excitement of seeing an up-and-coming young driver take to the wheel of a Mercedes; the thrill of racing on a completely new track; and the pleasure to have F1 here for a unique series of two races. “It somehow feels fitting for us that such a difficult year concludes with a unique event, which we hope has acted as a positive memory for those watching.

“We have only been able to do all of this together with #TeamBahrain. The coordination, the passion, the effort and hard work of so many people in the Kingdom give us an event, which we can be deeply proud of.”