The race was originally scheduled to be the season-opener © Press Association
The Bahrain Grand Prix will go ahead in 2011, following a World Motor Sports Council (WMSC) meeting in Barcelona.
The FIA has decided that the race will be rescheduled for October 30, with the Indian Grand Prix originally planned for that weekend now moved to an as yet undecided date at the end of the season. A statement from the FIA said that the WMSC had voted unanimously to reinstate the race after a delegation visit to the country earlier this week:
'After considering all the factors and taking into consideration all stakeholders' concerns, the WMSC unanimously agreed to reinstate the Bahrain Grand Prix in the 2011 FIA Formula One World Championship.
This decision reflects the spirit of reconciliation in Bahrain, which is evident from the strong support the race receives from the Government and all major parties in Bahrain, including the largest opposition group, all of whom endorse the Formula One Grand Prix and motor sport in the country. The WMSC feels that reinstating the Grand Prix is a means of helping to unite people as the country looks to move forward, and also recognises the commitment made by the Formula One teams, their employees and families, and personnel associated with the Championship including the local team of volunteers who are so vital to the event.
The Bahrain Grand Prix will take place on 30 October, replacing the Indian Grand Prix, which will now become the final round of the 2011 Championship, combined with the FIA Annual General Assembly and Prize-Giving Gala.'
The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) welcomed the decision, and 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."
The move is controversial, not only for the moral arguments against going to Bahrain, but also for the rescheduling of the Indian Grand Prix to the end of the season, a move that the teams were against.
Red Bull were first to react to the FIA's decision, with a statement on its website saying the matter would be discussed by FOTA.
"Red Bull Racing has acknowledged the FIA World Motor Sport Council's decision to go ahead with the 2011 Bahrain Grand Prix. We will go through the correct channels and discuss this decision within the appropriate forum with the other F1 teams and our fellow FOTA members"
Credit: ESPN F1 (en.espnf1.com)
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