Hotel bookings for Formula One teams have been confirmed, said officials, adding that the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will go ahead as scheduled.

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) officials dismissed reports that the teams were dropping out of the race because of the security situation.

Reports that teams were "reluctant" to race in Bahrain made their rounds on social media websites and news agencies once again yesterday (April 10), following a bomb attack on seven policemen in East Eker on Monday.

"BIC has had no official word from any of the teams or anyone else in the FIA or Formula One management about anyone not coming," said BIC administration director Abdulrahman Qarata.

"I am not aware of any cancellations (of hotel bookings), impending cancellations or anyone not wanting to come. All logistics have been worked out and everything is in place. Things are looking good."

Qarata was speaking yesterday during a meeting at the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He said all 34 corporate boxes for the race were sold out and ticket bookings had reached its height.

"We have sold more tickets 10 days before the race this time than we did in 2010, so that is a clear indication there is a lot of interest," he added.

BIC chief executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa earlier dismissed reports the race, scheduled to be held from April 20 to 22, could be cancelled due to the political situation in Bahrain and pledged security for team members.

He said there was a plan in place to ensure the safety of the teams, officials and fans. – TradeArabia News Service