Formula One helmet manufacturer Bell Racing Helmets has announced it will relocate part of its business to Bahrain.

Revealed on the final day of the Bahrain F1 grand prix, Bell said it would move its global research and development and manufacturing operations, creating 100 jobs in Bahrain.

Bell supplies helmets to many of the world’s leading drivers, including F1 stars Scuderia Toro Rosso’s Jean-Eric Vergne, Sauber F1’s Esteban Gutizrrez, Lotus F1’s Pastor Maldonado and Romain Grosjean and Caterham F1’s Marcus Ericsson.

Bahrain has been working to attract major motorsport-related businesses, with a 1m square metre development at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir.

Bell Racing Helmets chief executive Martine Kindt said the new facility was expected to start production in 2015. The company would reduce its workforce in Belgium, Italy and China as a result.

“We are hugely excited about moving our operations to a country where the passion for motorsport is tangible everywhere,” Kindt was quoted by Gulf Daily News as saying.

“The motorsport facilities at the BIC, combined with the business-friendly environment were also a major draw for us.

“We thank the BIC for this great opportunity and look forward to working with the team, who share our passion for racing, innovation and performance.”

“We are delighted that a world-leading name such as Bell has decided to come and base itself at the BIC, which underlines our position as the home of Motorsport in the Middle East,” Al Zayani said.

Bell also produces karting, rallying and GT racing helmets.

http://www.arabianbusiness.com/f1-helmet-manufacturer-move-bahrain-545596.html