Authorities in Bahrain have thwarted a potential terrorist attack that was set to take place at last weekend's F1 event in the country as people are on edge following demonstrations from last year and protests about religious tension.

According to Reuters, terrorists threatened the event with bombs and authorities were able to find 1,000 petrol bombs as well as weapons and other materials that could have been used in the attacks. The report said that two years ago protests broke out about reforming the country and those issues have come up again with the opposition saying that the race was a PR stunt by the government.

The state media countered with an argument that it was a regular event, but that did not stop protestors from blocking roads as well as the attackers from preparing an incident. According to the report from officials, 19 mock bombs as well as bullets and homemade guns were found around the area. Government officials also had to deal with rioting and other activities.

Widespread unrest forced the cancellation of the 2011 Formula One race and although the event went ahead in 2012, it was overshadowed by violent protests in the country.