F1 and the FIA, along with the promoter of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, plan to contest the weekend in Jeddah as planned. This decision and this will come as an attack took place on an Aramco oil depot, a few kilometers from the circuit.
Aramco is one of the most important partners in Formula 1 today and the title sponsor of Aston Martin F1. Initial meetings have taken place to keep stakeholders in the discipline informed.
At the end of these, the CEO of F1, Stefano Domenicali, assured that the paddock ran no risk in Jeddah: “Personally, I feel absolutely safe. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be here.”
The organizer of the Grand Prix, Saudi Motorsport Company, communicated on its side, and revealed to have discussed with the Saudi authorities, in order to guarantee the safety of all the people involved and attending the Grand Prix.
“The race organizers remain in direct contact with the Saudi security authorities, as well as with F1 and the FIA” can we read in the press release.
The organizer promises “to ensure that all necessary safety and security measures continue to be implemented to ensure the safety of all visitors to the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, as well as all drivers, teams and stakeholders.”
“The race weekend program will continue as planned. The safety and security of all our guests continues to be our top priority and we look forward to welcoming fans for a weekend of racing and entertainment of first order.”
However, a meeting might come and change the situation. The pilots will indeed regroup under the banner of the GPDA, their association, at 8 p.m. French time, to potentially decide on actions to be taken on their side.