F1: Bahrain GP Rescheduled For Oct. 30

Formula 1

F1: Bahrain GP Rescheduled For Oct. 30

While no announcement has been made yet by the FIA, the Bahrain track says its race is rescheduled for Oct. 30...

Adam Cooper | http://www.speedtv.com | Posted June 03, 2011 Balen (BEL)

F1 drivers compete in the 2010 Bahrain Grand Prix. (Photo: Getty Images)

The Bahrain circuit has announced that its race will be on in 2011, pre-empting any announcement from the FIA.

The news was first announced by a government official on Twitter, and on Bahrain TV.

As expected, the date will be Oct. 30, although the official BIC statement doesn’t specify it. It’s not yet clear when the Indian GP, previously scheduled for that date, will be held, although December seems the only likely choice.

The circuit statement is as follows: "The head of the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) today welcomed the decision of the FIA (Federation Internationale de L’Automobile) World Motor Sport Council to reintroduce the Bahrain Grand Prix to the 2011 calendar.

"The decision, announced by the FIA after the Council’s meeting in Barcelona, follows a FIA delegation visit to Bahrain to assess the situation in country this week.

Zayed R. Alzayani, Chairman of the BIC, said: “This is welcome news for all of Bahrain. As a country we have faced a difficult time, but stability has returned; with businesses operating close to normal, the State of National Safety lifted and countries removing travel restrictions.

“Collectively, we are in the process of addressing issues of national and international concern, and learning lessons from the recent past. By the time the Grand Prix arrives we will be able to remind the world about Bahrain at its best.

“The Bahrain Grand Prix has always been a source of national pride and it is an event than transcends politics. Not only does it receive strong support from the Government, but also from all major parties in Bahrain, including our largest opposition group, Al Wefaq, who yesterday endorsed both the BIC and motor-racing in Bahrain.

“Importantly, it will also offer a significant boost to the economy. The Grand Prix attracts 100,000 visitors, supports 3,000 jobs and generates around $500m of economic benefit. Its positive effect will be felt throughout the country.

“On behalf of Bahrain, I would like to thank Bernie Ecclestone, Jean Todt and the FIA and the rest of the motorsport community for the support and understanding they have extended to us this year.”

Adam Cooper notched up his 26th season as a racing journalist in 2010. He has written about F1 for SPEED.com since 2005. Follow him on Twitter.