Formula 1 has taken emergency measures to ensure the Australian Grand Prix goes ahead this weekend, chartering planes from the UK and Europe after around 1,000 staff had their flights cancelled due to Middle East conflict. Several countries have shut their airspace, causing travel chaos for teams and management.
Travis Auld, head of the Melbourne event, said he is 'really confident' the race will proceed without disruption. Key personnel including drivers, engineers and team principals have been prioritised for travel on specially arranged flights. 'The drivers will be here, the engineers will be here, the team principals will be here,' Auld confirmed.
The cars have already arrived in Australia, having been transported from Bahrain after pre-season testing. However, some team members remain stranded in Manama after Pirelli cancelled a wet-weather tyre test. The city has been targeted by Iranian missiles following US and Israeli strikes on the country's leadership.
While the Australian race is secure, the upcoming Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix on 12 and 19 April face serious doubt. The FIA has stated that 'safety and wellbeing will guide our decisions' regarding those events. Formula 1 said it is 'closely monitoring' the situation and has contingency plans to maintain a 24-race season if cancellations are necessary.
Fans have been assured they will notice no difference at the Melbourne race. Auld added: 'Luckily, we've been able to get everyone that needs to be here, here. My understanding is that's all now been locked in.'
