Bahrain no longer hosting Formula 1 opening round

Bahrain's Crown Prince- HRH Prince Salman bin Hamsf Al-Khalifa has recently announced that the Kingdom of Bahrain would no longer be hosting the opening round of the 2011 FIA Formula One World Championship due to take place from March 11th to 13th.

The decision has been put down to the countries political situation as they focus on "overcoming tragedy" and "healing divisions" in the aftermath of the civil unrest that occurred in the country.




Bahrain International Circuit

  The country has suffered recently after seven people were killed and hundreds injured in an attempt to stop protesters demanding more say in the Gulf Arab Kingdom.

When addressing the situation, Prince Salman said "At the present time the county's entire attention is focused on building a new national dialogue for Bahrain.

"After the events of the past week, our nation's priority is on overcoming tragedy, healing divisions and rediscovering the fabric that draws this country together, reminding the world of the very best that Bahrain is capable of as a nation once again united.

"I hope that F1 and our friends around the world will understand our decision at this difficult time".


CEO of F1, Bernie Eccelestone



President and CEO of Formula One Management, Bernie Ecclestone was understanding about the county's decision to withdraw stating "It is sad that Bahrain has had to withdraw from the race, we wish the whole nation well as they begin to heal their country".

While Australia will now host the opening race 2 weeks later,it is still unknown to fans whether a decision has been made in regards to the new date and rescheduling of the race that was due to take place in Bahrain.