Official: Bahrain GP season opener cancelled
21 February, 2011
Paddock buildings at the Sakhir circuit in Bahrain
Feb.21 (Press release) The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) today announced that the Kingdom of Bahrain would withdraw from hosting this year’s F1 Grand Prix race so that the country can focus on its process of national dialogue.
An image on (www.yalibnan.com)
Last Friday, Bahrain’s Crown Prince – HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa – initiated a new national dialogue involving all sections of Bahraini society in order to resolve the current political situation in the Kingdom. The Crown Prince informed Formula One’s Bernie Ecclestone of the BIC’s decision by telephone earlier today.
HRH Prince Salman said: “At the present time the country’s entire attention is focused on building a new national dialogue for Bahrain.
“Although Bernie Ecclestone had graciously made clear that a decision on the race was entirely Bahrain’s to make and was not yet required, we felt it was important for the country to focus on immediate issues of national interest and leave the hosting of Bahrain’s Formula 1 race to a later date.
“I would like to extend my personal gratitude to Bernie Ecclestone for his support and understanding.
Bernie Ecclestone with His Highness the Crown Prince Shaikh Salman bin Isa Hamad Al Khalifa
“After the events of the past week, our nation’s priority is on overcoming tragedy, healing divisions and rediscovering the fabric that draws this country together; reminding the world of the very best that Bahrain is capable of as a nation once again united.
Chairman of the Bahrain International Circuit, Zayed R. Alzayani said: “Bahrain’s Grand Prix is a time of celebration and hosting the race is a source of great pride for Bahrain and Bahrainis. It is a showcase to the world and we look forward to welcoming the teams and drivers and everyone involved in Formula One back to Bahrain in the very near future.
“I hope that F1 and our friends around the world will understand our decision at this difficult time.”
Following the Crown Prince’s decision, Bernie Ecclestone commented: “It is sad that Bahrain has had to withdraw from the race, we wish the whole nation well as they begin to heal their country.
“The hospitality and warmth of the people of Bahrain is a hallmark of the race there, as anyone who has been at a Bahrain Grand Prix will testify. We look forward to being back in Bahrain soon.”
No decision has been made on a new date for the rescheduling of the race, which was due to take place from March 11th to 13th.
Related posts:
- Bahrain GP decision to be made Tuesday
- Ecclestone hopes Bahrain GP takes place
- Bahrain GP2 cancelled and F1 race uncertain
- Formula 1 world keep eye on Bahrain unrest
- Bahrain wants F1 season opener forever
I won’t miss it for sure–on to Australia
The F1 circus is the epitome of the elite culture, . The thought of the F1 Tanks ( pictures shown above ) coming to town while people are burying their dead and risking their lives to protest , is not funny at all.
The F1 circus is the epitome of the elite culture, The thought of the F1 Tanks ( pictures shown above ) coming to town while people are burying their dead and risking their lives to protest , is not funny at all.
I will miss seeing the teams and the show, but the track is just another boring waste of pavement. Bahrain should be replaced with a European track with more character. The way things are going in that part of the world, I fear this is only the first of this type of problem.
As an F1 fan I can honestly say it won’t be missed.