16 Apr 2013

Explosion in Bahrain raises concerns ahead of F1 race

11:32 am on 16 April 2013

A car explosion in the heart of the Bahraini capital Manama has heightened security concerns ahead of this weekend's Formula One Grand Prix.

The blast occurred late on Sunday night in the Financial Harbour district of the city.

An opposition group calling itself the February 14 movement has claimed it was behind the blast.

The Ministry of Interior acknowledged the blast and said it had caused no casualties.

On social media sites, the 14 February movement has said it will carry out more "actions" in a bid to force the cancellation of the race.

However when asked about the blast Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone dismissed concerns, telling reporters in Shanghai he saw "no reason" why the Bahrain race would not be a success.