Formula 1 affected by unrest in Bahrain

After the incredible, ‘down to the wire’, 2010 F1 season, fans were patiently anticipating the fading red lights, which would signal the resumption of the all cylinders firing party. The chaotic jostling of invaluable machines which normally unfolds, as the beasts of speed race for preferred spots, is a thing of beauty, relished by all motor racing fans.

Massa

In March 2010, at the season opener, Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa brought their version of red fury and painted the podium Ferrari red. They stomped the yard – a Ferrari 1-2.

The message was sent and I am certain both drivers went to their motor homes or hotels feeling mighty pleased with themselves. But, in every war, there are numerous battles. The other teams on the grid found their rhythm, their horses grew in strength and the race down the home stretch became a ding-dong battle, one which is still being discussed whenever F1 aficionados assemble.

But that was then, this is now. Testing has begun and teams are quite busy putting their exotic machines through their paces, to ensure that they will leave the line with maximum thrust and the reliability required to complete the massacre.

Bahrain

The 5.412 km track at the Bahrain International Circuit, was scheduled to play host to Bernie’s first party – the season opener for the 2011 F1 season, but, cries for democracy are sweeping through Africa and the Middle East and the once repressed voices are being embraced like exhausted soldiers returning to lonely wives.

Events in Egypt possibly held the spark, but the resulting fire knows no boundary at present and there is no extinguisher in sight. Civil unrest in Bahrain has led to safety concerns being raised and as expected, people power triumphed.

We have a saying – use sleep mark death! The Crown Prince of Bahrain possibly understands this and so, with Egypt’s model being the guide, he decided that the Kingdom of Bahrain will not host F1’s season opener (11th – 13th of March).

Yes, we are disappointed but, all things considered, the decision is a sound one. We can expect the Round to be rescheduled and even though Australia is known for bush fires, I don’t think this one will grace their shores. The Australian Grand Prix, March 25th – 27th .

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer