GreenBkk.com Formula 1 | GP2 practice cancelled as Bahrain protests worsen

GP2 practice cancelled as Bahrain protests worsen

Bahraini anti-government protesters wave flags in a demonstration in Bahrain on Wednesday © Associated Press

Concerns over whether next month's Bahrain Grand Prix will go ahead continued with news that today's practice for the GP Asia series at the Sakhir circuit near Manama was postponed.

Unrest has been escalating inside the Gulf state in recent days, with security forces struggling to quell protests against the government and the absolute monarchist state behind it. Several people have died in the last week, and anti-government leaders have indicated the race could be targeted by protestors.

The protests began as part of a "day of rage" on Sunday and are expected to continue over the coming days and into the weekend. Various sporting events, including a charity marathon and a local rugby match, have already been cancelled.

The official reason for the cancellation of the GP2 practice is that medical staff scheduled to be at the track have been diverted to hospitals. A statement issued by GP2 confirmed that the reason for the 24 hour postponement was "due to the current local events".

FIA president Jean Todt has tried to play down the situation. "I always try not to overreact on breaking stories," he told the Irish Independent. "Of course the essence of the FIA is safety; safety on the racing car, safety on the road, safety in our organisation. So that's what we are claiming, but at the moment there is no reason to have unnecessary concern."

''The safety of all Bahraini nationals, expats and overseas visitors is a priority at all times,'' a spokesman for the Bahrain International Circuit said. ''We are monitoring the situation very closely indeed in association with the relevant authorities and will respond appropriately to any further developments.''

However, CNN reported the last 24 hours have been particularly violent, involving clashes with rubber bullets and tear gas and at least three more people killed.

Credit: ESPN F1 (en.espnf1.com)