Up to 1,000 Formula One personnel have been forced to make last-minute travel changes to reach Melbourne for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, amid the escalating crisis in the Middle East. Some staff are expected to miss the start of the race weekend entirely.
However, a larger logistical headache has been avoided, as the cars and supporting equipment were shipped from last month's testing in Bahrain before this week's widespread aviation disruptions. Travis Auld, chief executive of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, confirmed the vehicles are already at Albert Park, ready for the race weekend beginning with practice on Friday.
Auld told Channel Nine that many staff have had to reroute flights to avoid hubs in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, which have been hit by Iranian missiles. He estimated close to 1,000 people had to change their travel plans, but they have managed to sort it out despite increased demand.
Formula One officials are monitoring the situation for upcoming races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in April. The FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, stated that safety and wellbeing will guide decisions on those events. He expressed sadness over the loss of life and hoped for a swift return to stability.
Auld assured fans that all drivers, engineers, and team principals will be present in Melbourne, as they have been prioritised for travel. Some support staff may be absent, but the race can proceed without them.
