Bernie gives Azerbaijan the 'all-clear'

MANAMA, Bahrain - F1 has no qualms about holding a grand prix in Azerbaijan next year despite concerns raised by rights activists, the sport's commercial supremo Bernie Ecclestone said on Sunday (April 19).

"Baku? No problem. That's going to be another good race," the 84-year-old told reporters at the Bahrain GP, another controversial fixture that follows on from China in a crowded calendar.

This year is the 11th Bahrain GP, with the 2011 race cancelled after an uprising by the Shi'ite Muslim majority to demand reforms in the strategic Gulf kingdom triggered a subsequent crackdown.