The Bahrain Grand Prix will officially not go ahead as the season opener after the organisers finally came to a decision on Monday.
The event has been overshadowed by protests in the country which has raised concerns that it would not be safe, or right, for the race to go ahead.
Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa told Bernie Ecclestone the news via a telephone call, saying: “At the present time the country’s entire attention is focused on building a new national dialogue for Bahrain,” he said.
“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.
“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.”
The F1 supremo said it was sad to loose the first race of the season, but conceded it was the best decision before wishing the nation well.
“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,” said the 80-year-old.
“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.”
It is yet undecided when it will be re-scheduled for, with some reports suggesting the August break, others before or after Abu Dhabi.
The season will now start in Australia on March 27th.
The FIA also released a statement which backed the decision:
“The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile supports the decision of the Bahrain Motor Federation and the Bahrain International Circuit to postpone the scheduled first Grand Prix of the 2011 season due to be held in the Kingdom of Bahrain on March 11-13.
“This decision is the outcome of the close co-operation between the FIA, Formula One Management, the Bahrain Motor Federation and the Bahrain International Circuit.”
