Bahrain has asked Formula One’s (F1) governing body to reschedule its grand prix when it meets tomorrow, insisting the country is returning to normal despite lasting political tensions.
Zayed Rashid Alzayani, chairman of the Bahrain International Circuit, which holds the Bahrain Grand Prix, told reporters that the Gulf country was ready to “hold the race today.”
Alzayani said he was hopeful it would be held in October or -November to coincide with the Abu Dhabi GP on Nov. 13 so that teams would not be forced to go back and forth to Europe or some other destination.
It was the first time Bahrain has formally said its Bahrain Motor Federation has proposed rescheduling the March race, which was canceled by Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa over anti-government protest.
“We feel we are in position to have that event back,” Alzayani said. “Things have calmed down tremendously in Bahrain. Life is back to normal. We are happy to have the race anytime really.”
Alzayani said he has “received positive feedback” when talking with F1 officials, teams and drivers about a new date. However, some team principals, including Ferrari’s Stefano Domenicali, have expressed concerns about extending the season to Dec. 11 because of logistical challenges.
Alzayani dismissed such -concerns, saying that this year’s season would still be a week shorter since it started two weeks late.
“If the world council decides to have a race, the teams will have to come,” he said. “A, they get paid, and B, they have to score points. It’s not like there will be a race and no teams will show up.”
If, and when, the race goes ahead will be decided during tomorrow’s World Motor Sport Council meeting in Barcelona, Spain.
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