It has been one week since FIA announced the reinstatement of the Bahrain GP, which will take the October 30 slot of the Indian GP, pushing the inaugural race to be the 2011 season finale. But instead of welcoming cheers, the World Motor Sport Council decision attracted plenty of flak from the paddock, human rights groups and commentators alike. You can read their views here and here.
As criticism grew by the day, including an unwilling FOTA and a doubtful Bernie Ecclestone, the FIA has been left with little option but to backtrack and apologise. No such move, yet, but FIA president Jean Todt has asked Bernie to resubmit a calendar, which would likely revert India to October 30, ending the season in Brazil on November 27. The Bahrain GP organiser meanwhile, has all but given up hope.
“Whilst Bahrain would have been delighted to see the grand prix progress on October 30th in-line with the World Motor Sport Council’s decision, it has been made clear that this fixture cannot progress and we fully respect that decision,” Bahrain International Circuit chairman Zayed R Alzayani said in a statement.
“Bahrain has always sought to play a positive role in the continued development of Formula 1, from pioneering F1 racing in the Middle East, to helping other countries in facilitating their own races in new territories, as well as providing our own unique experience and universal welcome to grand prix supporters.
“Bahrain has absolutely no desire to see a race which would further extend the calendar season [and] detract from the enjoyment of F1 for either drivers, teams or supporters. We want our role in Formula 1 to continue to be as positive and constructive as it has always been, therefore, in the best interest of the sport, we will not pursue the rescheduling of a race this season,” he added.
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Make indianGP as penultimate race is disastrous..no offense!!!