One of the Middle East's top racing drivers has praised the Bahraini leaders who brought Formula One to the tiny island nation.
14-time Rally Champion Mohammed bin Sulayem said the grand prix near Sakhir, scheduled for April 4 next year, is a 'dream come true' for the region.
'It's a smart move by the Bahrain leaders,' he said.
Presently, more than 2000 construction workers are chipping away on the $150 million project, to be the third round of the 2004 world championship.
John Spiller, Sulayem's co-driver, said the track, where local drivers will be able to train, could produce the first Arab F1 driver.
'We are racing against the clock,' said general manager, Hans Geist, 'but we will be ready for the event.'
Formula One will bring in at least $50 million to Bahrain, he added.
But, unlike most races at the pinnacle of motorsports, there'll be no bikini-clad grid girls or sprayed champagne at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
'We have to follow the customs and traditions of the region,' said Geist.
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