Gulf grand prix officials in security clampdown

Organisers of the Bahrain Grand Prix claim they have taken every precaution to make sure Sunday's race goes ahead without incident.

The build-up to the first Formula One event in the Middle East has been dominated by the issue of terrorist threats.

Drivers and teams have been told to be careful, although six-time world champion Michael Schumacher has insisted he has no fears about making the trip to the Gulf region.

But given the situation, and with the race crucial to the sport's expansion plans, security around the £100million Bahrain International Circuit will be tight.

The National Guard have been placed on 24-hour alert while advice on anti-terrorist measures has been taken from security forces.

"Security is of paramount importance to all of us in Bahrain," said Colonel Tariq Bin Daineh, the spokesman for the Ministry of the Interior.

"The Bahrain Grand Prix is the largest sporting event of its kind to be held in this part of the world and we are concentrating all our resources on ensuring the safety of all those involved.

"Apart from ensuring the smooth running of the race, one of our primary focuses is on the safety of those visiting the island.

"We want everyone who visits Bahrain to enjoy their stay with us and to understand that we have extensive security plans in place.

Schumacher did have doubts about going to the United States Grand Prix in the wake of the 11 September attacks.

But the German, who will be bidding to make it three wins out of three, said: "Attacks can be any time, any place. What can you do? You must do whatever you feel you have to do. I am pretty sure Bahrain will be one of the safe places because their safety measures will be very high."