Bahrain officials delighted over FIA’s decision to delay deadline- Formula 1 update
The Bahrain circuit boss, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, has rejoiced over the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) decision to give Bahrain more time to settle their political disputes and re-schedule a Grand Prix. Al Khalifa added that as
soon as the conditions are back to normal, Bahrain Grand Prix will make its way on to the 2011 Formula 1 calendar.
Salman expressed his delight when he said, “I am very happy that we have been given more time by the FIA to accomplish our national goals, so that we may hopefully stage our Grand Prix later this year.” He further hoped for an early conclusion to Bahrain’s
political turmoil. “While it is important for us to have our race, our complete concentration right now must be on a national dialogue,” he added.
On Tuesday a meeting held at the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) decided that Bahrain will be given more time before it the decision was made on Bahrain hosting a Grand Prix. Bernie Ecclestone, Formula one boss, wanted a decision prior to the season opener
in Australia but WMSC decided that the Bahrain decision will not be taken until May. There were options that another European circuit could be made ready for an extra Grand Prix, but Bernie strongly said that no extra races will be scheduled anywhere in Europe
and Formula one world will go to Bahrain if HRH Salman hosts the race.
The Formula 1 world has strongly criticised the desert circuits and have said that they make races dull because of the minimal overtaking options. After the Bahrain cancellation, many critics were delighted. Williams technical director, Sam Michael, said
the other day that they would have boycotted the race had it not been cancelled. Meanwhile, Bernie has repeated numerous times that by going to Bahrain in August or November, Formula 1 will be showing support for the struggling nation.
In these circumstances, the decision to delay the deadline will not hamper any team’s strategy, but it will be interesting to see how Bahrain answers in May, and what affect it leaves on the Formula 1 teams.
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