His Majesty will on Sunday attend the climax of the three-day event which concludes in the afternoon with the final race.
“We are grateful to the FIA, teams, sponsors and the BIC for ensuring that this great event has begun and in the celebratory spirit of community that Formula 1 represents,” HM Majesty said.
“I also want to make clear my personal commitment to reform and reconciliation in our great country. The door is always open for sincere dialogue amongst all our people.”
“Last month I received the report on progress made on the recommendations of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry. It confirmed that broad and substantial progress on reform has already been made by the Government,” His Majesty explained.
“We must of course continue the pace of reform.”
“I would also like to wish all the Formula 1 teams today the best of luck – and thank you for showing your faith in our country by coming here. We also look forward to welcoming you again next year.”