Bahrain abandons efforts for 2011 race

Heads of the Bahrain International Circuit have given in to mounting pressure and announced that they will not persue holding a Grand Prix in Bahrain in 2011.

In recent days the FIA announced that the Bahrain event would return to the calendar, moving into India’s original spot. However, Max Mosley, Bernie Ecclestone and FOTA all agreed to oppose the event. Their argument was that unanimous agreement was needed in order to change race dates, which was never going to be achieved.

After months of critisism from international media, the circuit organisers have conceded that a race will not occur there in 2011.

Circuit chairman Zayed Alzayani has announced:

"Whilst Bahrain would have been delighted to see the Grand Prix progress on October 
30th in-line with the World Motor Sport Council’s decision, it has been made clear 
that this fixture cannot progress and we fully respect that decision.

Bahrain has always sought to play a positive role in the continued development of 
Formula One, from pioneering F1 racing in the Middle East, to helping other countries 
in facilitating their own races in new territories, as well as providing our own 
unique experience and universal welcome to Grand Prix supporters.

Bahrain has absolutely no desire to see a race which would further extends the 
calendar season detract from the enjoyment of F1 for either drivers, teams or 
supporters. We want our role in Formula One to continue to be as positive and 
constructive as it has always been, therefore, in the best interest of the sport, 
we will not pursue the rescheduling of a race this season.

We look forward to welcoming teams, their drivers and supporters back to Bahrain 
next year and would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our supporters, including 
staff, volunteers, sponsors, private businesses and the general public, for whom I 
know this year’s decision will be a disappointment. We would also especially like to 
thank the FIA, FOM, The Bahrain Motor Federation (BMF) and the teams for all support 
and understanding they have extended to us at this time."

While it will not be confirmed for a while, it is almost certain that the Indian Grand Prix will now be returned to its original October 30th date.

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