Mercedes issue update on staff stranded by Middle East conflict

Mercedes has confirmed its team personnel who were present in Bahrain when the Middle Eastern conflict escalated have since returned to the UK.

The Brackley-based squad was set up in Bahrain for a Pirelli tyre test last weekend when the US and Israel coordinated strikes on Iran.

The subsequent fallout saw the conflict violence spill over into nearby regions, including Bahrain.

It created a highly uncomfortable situation for F1 and Pirelli, who opted to abandon the test in the interest of safety.

With the situation causing significant travel disruption in the area, focus then turned to getting the F1 personnel in Bahrain safely home.

Mercedes has confirmed it has successfully done so, as a spokesperson told RacingNews365 that “those who were in Bahrain for the tyre test from our team have now returned back to the UK”. 

It added that “team members that are needed in Melbourne (including Fred Vesti) will continue their journey and expect to be in Australia by Thursday evening, ready for the race weekend.”

Questions have already been asked over the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, which take place in just over one month's time.

The conflict has already forced the World Endurance Championship to take action, as it recently announced the postponement of the season-opening event in Qatar.

However, team boss Toto Wolff has insisted it is still too early to consider what the situation means for F1.

“With the ongoing situation in the Middle East, it seems trivial to talk about sport,” Wolff said.

“We watch the developing events in the region with concern and hope that the protection of civilian life remains paramount. 

“With the planned tyre test in Bahrain, we have had several team members affected who thankfully have now been able to leave the country safely. 

“With such a serious situation unfolding, it would be unhelpful to talk about the possible further impact on F1 over the coming weeks,” he said. 

“We know that the FIA and F1 will continue to monitor events and make the necessary and correct decisions as and when they need to.”