Saudi Arabian GP in doubt as black fumes in nearby facility causes safety concerns after terrorist attack
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Fumes seen during the FP1 of the Saudi Arabian GP
The first free practice session of the Saudi Arabian GP was quite eventful on track. But the highlight of the session comes from an incident that took place off track. The incident was that of fire in the Aramco facility, which is situated near the airport and the track itself.
The fire is said to have been caused by an attack by the Houthis. This attack isn’t the first one this week and has previously raced the security concerns for the GP weekend as well. “We are waiting for further information from the authorities on what has happened,” said a spokesperson from F1.
The cause for the fire, which resulted in a burning oil smell all over the track during the practice, hasn’t been confirmed yet. But any confirmation of an attack might heighten the security concerns and cast doubt over the race this weekend.
What’s ahead for Saudi Arabian GP?
The security for the Saudi Arabian GP has been high since an attack on an Aramco distribution center in Jeddah last Saturday. The Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen took the responsibility for the attacks on the city. However, no confirmation has come in yet from the same group.
For F1 and Saudi Arabia, it is a major safety concern. F1 with its massive viewership and stakeholders is a lucrative target for the group. The sporting authority is in talks with the local authorities before taking any major decision on the racing weekend.
The drivers and bosses were called for a meeting which was also attended by the FIA’s president. However, the reason for it isn’t made public. And the decision on the Saudi Arabian GP is likely to be announced after the FP2.
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Manan Goel
(400 Articles Published)