F1 staff have been ordered by security personnel in Bahrain to remove Pride flags from bags

FORMULA ONE has taken action after team members were ordered by security staff to remove the Pride Flag from their backpacks.

Airport-style checks are underway at Bahrain’s international circuit, with some F1 staff prevented from taking their equipment onto the track – or told it would be confiscated.

A complaint was made to the sport’s bosses and the circuit’s owners, who say they have now dealt with the “isolated incident”.

F1 has been openly criticized for racing in the Middle East due to well-publicized human rights issues.

And while homosexuality is legal in Bahrain, other rights are limited or not recognized.

Bahrain will host the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix this Sunday, March 3.

And last year, British MPs called on the sport to launch an independent investigation into the link between the Grand Prix and human rights abuses.

However, F1 chiefs say they are committed to helping change and undertaking projects to improve economic, social and cultural benefits in the countries in which they race.

An F1 spokesperson said: “This was an isolated incident which was contrary to the policy of F1 and the organizer of the event in Bahrain.

“It was immediately addressed and resolved.

“As a sport, we and our partners proactively celebrate diversity and inclusion.

“And we have supported everyone in our community to raise awareness of the values ​​we all share.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Bahrain International Circuit added: “BIC, the host of the Bahrain Grand Prix, welcomes everyone to its venue and opposes all forms of discrimination.

“This isolated incident is being investigated and appropriate action will be taken.”