The Formula 1 weekend in Saudi Arabia is currently due to go ahead as planned. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali met with the team bosses and drivers to update them on the situation in Jeddah, after a fire broke out at a nearby Aramco fuel facility ahead of first practice. The cause of the fire is yet to be officially confirmed, with the smoke from the burning facility noticeable in the paddock and for the drivers out on track. Just before the second practice session, the drivers and team members were called to meet with Domenicali in the F1 offices, resulting in a 15-minute delay to the start of the session.
A second meeting will be held on Friday evening
The meeting was called in order to update the drivers and teams with the latest information, as shared by local authorities, a source with knowledge of the situation outlined to RacingNews365.com . Domenicali is understood to have informed all in attendance that the weekend will proceed as planned, while security for the event has been a priority for the authorities. A second meeting is scheduled to take place on Friday evening, believed to be set for 22:00 local time, taking place after the second practice session.
Condemnation of "attack" on Aramco fuel facility
The Saudi Motorsport Company, promoters for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, have since issued a statement, revealing that the fire was caused by an "attack". "We are aware of the attack on the Aramco distribution station in Jeddah earlier this afternoon and 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," read the statement. "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."
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