Formula 1’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will continue as scheduled following an attack on an oil depot close to the Jiddah circuit.
Raging fire and large smoke clouds were seen from the F1 track after Houthis‘ attack set oil giant Aramco’s petroleum products distribution station ablaze. The incident took place towards the end of the first practice.
The second-ever Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jiddah is taking place on Sunday.
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Practice at the track continued as normal after a 15-minute delay. Drivers and team principals met with F1 president Stefano Domenicali and the FIA’s Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Domenicali assured them that the event would proceed as planned and that security has been a priority for authorities.
“Formula 1 has been in close contact with the relevant authorities following the situation that took place today,” the series said in a statement. “The authorities have confirmed that the event can continue as planned and we will remain in close contact with them and all the teams and closely monitor the situation.”
While Yemen’s Houthi rebel group claimed responsibility for the attack, neither F1 or the FIA have yet confirmed the cause of the blaze.
The Saudi Motorsport Company issued a statement following the attack.
“We are aware of the attack on the Aramco distribution station in Jeddah earlier this afternoon,” a statement read.
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“The race organisers remain in direct contact with the Saudi security authorities, as well as F1 and the FIA to ensure all necessary security and safety measures continue to be implemented to guarantee the safety of all visitors to the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as well as all drivers, teams and stakeholders.
“The race weekend schedule will continue as planned. The safety and security of all our guests continues to be our main priority and we look forward to welcoming fans for a weekend of premium racing and entertainment.”