HM King Hamad attends Grand Prix qualifying session

Manama, Apr 5(BNA)His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa attended this evening the qualifying session of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, which started yesterday and will conclude tomorrow at the Bahrain International Circuit. HM the King was received on arrival by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, BIC Chairman and board members. They all welcomed HM the King on his visit to the circuit, hailing his support for the global motorsport. HM the King then headed to the main BIC lounge where he followed-up the qualifying session of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. He was briefed by HRH the Crown Prince on BIC preparations to host the global motorsport event, in addition to the lighting system. He pointed out that Bahrain would host tomorrow the first ever Formula One night race in the region, outlining other packed artistic and cultural events being held on the sidelines of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. HM the King met Bahrain guests and thanked them on attending the global motorsport event which is the focus of the whole world. He commended His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier for his dedicated efforts to consolidate Bahrain’s standing in international sport arenas. He also thanked all BIC personnel for their dedicated work which contributed to the success of the global motorsport event, commending the International Automobile Federation (FIA), participating teams and sponsors for their crucial role to ensure an outstanding Grand Prix organization. HM the King then bestowed the Bahrain First Class Order on FIA President Jean Todt in recognition of his pivotal role in the Formula One races. He also bestowed the Bahrain First Class Order on prominent actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh in acknowledgement of her contribution in advocating humanitarian causes and community service. AHN