It’s official: Bahrain GP cancelled

Organisers have cancelled the first race of the Formula One season in Bahrain.

Following anti-government protests in the country, Bahrain Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa has called off the event, which was scheduled for March 13.

The Bahrain Information Affairs Authority announced the Crown Prince's intention to cancel via its Twitter site, quoting: "Bahrain's priority is on overcoming tragedy, healing divisions and rediscovering the fabric that draws this country together.

"At the present time the country's entire attention is focused on building a new national dialogue for Bahrain."

Bernie Ecclestone said: "It is sad that Bahrain has had to withdraw from the race. We wish the whole nation well as they begin to heal their country.

"The hospitality and warmth of the people of Bahrain is a hallmark of the race there, as anyone who has been at a Bahrain Grand Prix will testify. We look forward to being back in Bahrain soon."

No new date has been set for the Bahrain GP, which has been a fixture on the F1 calendar since 2004. The first race of the F1 season will now be the Australian GP on March 27, held in Melbourne. More as we get it...

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