Formula 1’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is set to go ahead as planned, despite a missile attack on the city of Jeddah, just six miles from the F1 circuit.
Smoke was seen in the distance during first practice for the race on Friday afternoon, with it later transpiring that a terrorist group had launched a missile attack on an Aramco oil plant.
Aramco is a major F1 sponsor and also title sponsor of the Aston Martin team.
F1 bosses was called to an emergency meeting between practice sessions, resulting in the delay of second practice by 15 minutes. The outcome of that meeting was that the race weekend should proceed as normal.
A statement from race organiser, the Saudi Motorsport Company, said: “We are aware of the attack on the Aramco distribution station in Jeddah earlier this afternoon. The race organisers remain in direct contact with the Saudi security authorities, as well as F1 and the FIA, to ensure all necessary security and safety measures continue to be implemented to guarantee the safety of all visitors to the Formula 1 stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as well as all drivers, teams and stakeholders.
“The race weekend schedule will continue as planned. The safety and security of all our guests continues to be our main priority and we look forward to welcoming fans for a weekend of premium racing and entertainment.”
F1 bosses are due to meet again at 10pm local time.
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