The FIA had initially given the Bahrain authorities until May 1 to confirm whether the race could take place later in 2011. The Grand Prix was originally slated to be the first stop on the calendar for this year, but the event was called off due to the political unrest in the country.
However, last week F1 rights holder Bernie Ecclestone (pictured) called for Bahrain to be given more time, telling Reuters that “we need to wait a little bit to see exactly how progress is made”. On Monday, the governing body released a statement to confirm Bahrain would be given until June 3.
“The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile has granted the Bahrain Motor Federation and the Bahrain International Circuit an extension until June 3, date of the FIA World Motor Sport Council in Barcelona,” read an FIA statement. “This decision was taken after consultation with the relevant Bahraini authorities and Formula One Management, the international promoter.”
Bahrain International Circuit chairman Zayed Rashid Alzayani said at the weekend: “Clearly our national priority is to find a resolution to the difficulties that the Kingdom of Bahrain has experienced. The national situation has moved on in a positive manner, the situation is evolving all the time; our day-to-day life is gradually improving under the current State of National Safety.”
He added: “Bahrain's grand prix is a time of celebration and hosting the race is a source of great pride for Bahrain and Bahrainis. It is a showcase to the world and we look forward to welcoming the teams and drivers and everyone involved in Formula 1 back to Bahrain in the very near future.”
