• Bahrain Grand Prix

Teams to leave Bahrain decision with FIA

A deserted track in 2011 ... but 2012 might see a race in Bahrain © Getty Images

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A year on from the cancelled 2011 Bahrain Grand Prix and once again the debate over whether it is safe or morally right to race in the troubled kingdom is again beginning to dominate the Formula One headlines.

Despite assurances from organisers that all is now well, there have been regular outbreaks of violence with activists saying more than 60 people have died since the unrest started. Reports suggest the situation has worsened in recent weeks as the February 14 anniversary approaches.

However, the Formula One teams are prepared to leave the decision as to whether to race with others.

"Like everyone, including the FIA and the commercial rights holder, we are concerned about the situation," said Sauber chief executive Monisha Kaltenborn said. "We, as the Sauber F1 team, are not in a position to judge that very well, so we have to trust in the FIA and the commercial rights holder who have the call on this. If they think it is the right thing to go then we will definitely go there.

Lotus team principal Eric Boullier, who is also vice-chairman of the teams' body FOTA, agreed it was up to the FIA. "We have commitments with regard to the Formula One championship, so it is not an easy decision to take. Right now we are awaiting feedback from the FIA on whether or not we go."

Lotus chairman Gerard Lopez said he was in favour of going. "What I've been hearing is that a number of guarantees have been given in terms of how everything will happen and so on. So if things look good then there is no reason why we shouldn't go to Bahrain."

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