Will F1 still race Saudi Arabia Grand Prix after Houthi attack near Jeddah?

A missile attack by Houthi rebels just miles away from the F1 circuit in Jeddah had people questioning if the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix should go forward.

The second week of the Formula 1 season opened with a bit of a scare after an Aramco refinery less than 10 miles from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit was attacked by Houthi rebels.

The Houthis, an Islamist political organization in direct conflict with Saudi Arabia over Yemen, claimed responsibility for the missile strike which sent a plume of black smoke into the air.

The column of smoke was visible as drivers prepared for Free Practice 2 and resulted in a delay as F1 officials met with the teams to discuss the incident.

F1 officials intend for the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix to go on as planned

In light of the proximity of this attack and the Houthis’ vow to continue attacking Saudi Arabia until their goals in Yemen are achieved, the question of whether or not the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix could go forward loomed on Friday.

Formula 1 released a statement, assuaging fears of a cancelation:

“Formula 1 has been in close contact with the relevant authorities following the situation that took place today. The authorities have confirmed that the event can continue as planned and we will remain in close contact with them and all the teams and closely monitor the situation.”

F1 has already had to cancel one Grand Prix this season over military conflicts, nixing the Russian Grand Prix following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

UPDATE: F1 team principals are in agreement about racing but it remains unclear if the drivers are also on board.

The drivers held a meeting that lasted more than four hours, apparently discussing safety concerns around the race.

It now sounds like the decision has been made to race.

F1 practice was delayed by a nearby attack by Houthi rebels

FP2 was delayed by just 15 minutes to accommodate the meeting between teams, drivers and F1 officials like F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.

Once the cars got back on track, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc proved himself fastest in the session, just ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. The two drivers look set up for another entertaining battle while their teammates Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez were also in a tight contest to finish third and fourth.