F1 continuing with Saudi GP as planned after missile attack

 

 

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah was put in danger on Friday after the city was hit by a missile barely 20 kilometers from the track during one of the free practice sessions.

The second free practice session began at 18:15 and was due to end at 19:15, but a meeting was scheduled for 20:00 to determine whether action was required in light of the attack.

The authorities had ensured everyone’s safety, according to Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali, although some drivers voiced a wish to leave as soon as possible. F1 has opted to hold the Grand Prix as scheduled.

 

“F1 trusts the local authorities and the assurances they have given us about the safety of all its members,” said a statement released close to 21:00.

“The race is going ahead, and we are totally reassured. The teams have voted unanimously in favour, as have the drivers,” Domenicali said after the second meeting between the participating teams and drivers.

 

It was a missile strike on the facilities of Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil firm, Aramco, which is also a Formula 1 global sponsor.

Aramco installations were assaulted for the third week in a row, with the Houthi movement likely claiming responsibility as part of their continuous opposition to the Saudi-led military operation in Yemen.