Bernie Ecclestone applies for Bahraini citizenship

Bernie Ecclestone is no stranger to provocation to ensure the future of the Bahrain Grand Prix. Recently, after declaring to the BBC that the good thing about Bahrain is that it seems more democratic than most countries since people are allowed to speak whenever they want and can protest if they wish, the Briton reportedly made an extraordinary request for naturalization with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

The Ipswich native, now aged 81, could thus, in the coming months, become a Bahraini citizen even if he does not meet the legal requirements to claim it, as he has not resided in Bahrain for at least 25 years: « Despite recent troubles, people seem happy in the country. Britain is just as democratic as Bahrain and, since we started going there in 2003, I have never had any complaints about the welcome we received from Bahraini authorities. I am convinced that if we go to Bahrain in April, the king will grant my request, which is a testament to the trust I have in the local authorities and the organization of the Grand Prix » explains Bernie Ecclestone to our colleagues at Pitpass.com, close to the F1 commercial rights holder.

Such a deviation from Bahrain’s constitutional provisions would not be unprecedented, as protesters have recently accused Bahraini authorities of bypassing the said Constitution to proceed with the massive regularization of foreigners, mainly to integrate them into the army, originating from Syria, Jordan, and Yemen: « The government grants nationality to foreigners who have never lived in Bahrain » thus assures Nabeel Rajab, president of the Bahrain Centre for Human Rights, an organization banned since 2004. As a result, the Bahraini population has increased by 20% in three years, primarily strengthening the Sunni minority, so that election results are more favorable to the ruling Sunni power.

Subject to Elizabeth II for a few more months probably, Bernie Ecclestone insists, however, that he will not regret no longer being at the service of Her Majesty: “I’ve given 80 years of my life to Great Britain, I can well give the next 80 to Bahrain! Besides, I would have free housing, a job – if I ever lose my job – and medical coverage, what more could I ask for?” adds the F1 financial magnate.

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