Formula 1 team principals and drivers have been told the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will go ahead following a missile attack on an oil plant near the circuit.
A large smoke cloud from the attack was first seen around 25 minutes into the opening practice session at Jeddah Corniche Circuit. An explosion occured and fire broke out at the North Jeddah Bulk Plant around 10 kilometres away from the F1 track.
The FIA confirmed the “Yemeni rebel group Houthi” had “claimed responsibility” for the attack. The facility which was hit is owned by Aramco which is a major sponsor of Formula 1 as well as the Aston Martin team. The fire continued to burn and was visible throughout F1’s second practice session, which was held after night had fallen.
Formula 1 issued a statement confirming the race will continue. “Formula 1 has been in close contact with the relevant authorities following the situation that took place today,” it said. “The authorities have confirmed that the event can…