Bahrain concedes defeat on Grand Prix

Motor Sport: Bahrain has officially given up hope of holding a grand prix this year following the backlash over the decision…

Motor Sport:Bahrain has officially given up hope of holding a grand prix this year following the backlash over the decision to reinstate the race.

Having initially seen the race postponed in light of political unrest in the country, the World Motor Sport Council had confirmed the event would be moved to October 30th - replacing the Indian Grand Prix scheduled for that date.

However, the teams led the criticism of the decision, voicing their concerns for logistical and insurance reasons in particular.

And with Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone already claiming the race was now "not on", Zayed R Alzayani, chairman of the Bahrain International Circuit, has now conceded defeat on the issue.

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"Whilst Bahrain would have been delighted to see the grand prix progress on October 30 in line with the World Motor Sport Council's decision, it has been made clear this fixture cannot progress and we fully respect that decision," said Alzayani.

"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 extend the calendar 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."

Bahrain is scheduled to host the season opener for next season, but at this early stage there are no guarantees.