F1 confirms Saudi Arabian GP decision after second meeting

Formula 1 and governing body the FIA have confirmed that the 2022 edition of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will be going ahead as planned.

The decision comes after paddock discussions over an apparent missile attack on an Aramco fuel facility ahead of Friday's first practice session in Jeddah, which led to acrid smoke permeating through the paddock and across the circuit.

At one stage, World Champion Max Verstappen noted a burning smell while he drove around, with his engineer replying: "We are happy it's not your car."

An initial meeting between F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, team bosses and the drivers was held ahead of second practice, during which the decision was taken to proceed with the event.

Following a second meeting on Friday night, that decision remains unchanged.

Saudi Arabian GP to go ahead as planned

Friday's second paddock meeting got underway at 22:00 local time (19:00 GMT), with a media scrum developing to await the verdict.

Domenicali emerged from the meeting alongside new FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, with the pair confirming to the press, including RacingNews365.com, that the race weekend would be continuing.

Saudi Arabia is playing host to its second Grand Prix, having arrived on the F1 calendar towards the end of the 2021 season.