The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will happen Sunday, despite the safety concerns of drivers who reportedly threatened to boycott the event.
“Following the widely reported incident that took place in Jeddah on Friday, there has been extensive discussion between all stakeholders, the Saudi government authorities and security agencies who have given full and detailed assurances that the event is secure,” Formula 1 said in a statement Saturday.
“It has been agreed with all stakeholders to maintain a clear and open dialogue throughout the event and for the future.”
The announcement comes just one day after an oil depot just a dozen miles from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit was hit by a missile Friday. Saudi Arabian officials said the incident resulted in no deaths and announced that security measures had been raised at the grand prix.
The race is the second of the 2022 F1 season after it began last week with the Bahrain Grand Prix. Reigning champion Max Verstappen lost power with only a few laps remaining in the race and was unable to finish.
