Bernie Ecclestone changes stance after recent developments in Bahrain – Formula 1 news
The FIA chief Bernie Ecclestone has recently admitted that he did not understand the situation in Bahrain and he misjudged it when he said “it seems as if it's quiet, no big problems.”
Bernie claims that he was misinformed by some FOM cameramen in a hotel in Bahrain and he is now aware that the situation it is not suitable anymore. He added that the situation is pretty unpredictable at the moment as things change there as each hour passes
by.
“It appears things are changing hourly. When I made my earlier statement it was based on information I had at that time, as opposed to what is happening,” he clarified after widespread reports of increased violence on Friday afternoon.
It was expected that the first race might have to be moved to another venue and that the Bahrain Grand Prix would be replaced as the season opener for the 2011 Formula 1 season. However, it seems that according to Bernie’s recent statement, the decision
regarding this matter might have to wait for some more time.
“I don't fear anything, I just think things have changed and that we should wait and see over the weekend exactly what changes there have been. At this moment it doesn't look good,” said Bernie.
However, it seems that after Bernie and FOTA recent comments, the British foreign office and some other governments are against anything but essential travel to Bahrain and it seems that the FIA might have to think twice before making a decision regarding
the season opening race which is expected to take place on March 13, 2011.
“In light of recent developments, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office [FCO] has changed its travel advice to advise against all but essential travel to the Kingdom of Bahrain,” read a warning on the British website.
However, this decision would definitely affect the team’s strategies for the 2011 Formula 1 season and they would now have to plan the season keeping in mind that the season opening race might take place at a different venue.
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