F1 has dismissed speculation that the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix could be cancelled amid conflict in the Middle East; rumours began following a UK Foreign Office update, which said British tourists visiting the UAE should be wary of the increased threat of terrorist attacks
Thursday 2 November 2023 15:47, UK
Formula 1 says the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is "not at risk" of cancellation despite unrest in the region caused by the Israel-Hamas war.
Following speculation on social media on Thursday morning that "safety concerns" could lead to the race being cancelled, F1 released a statement dismissing the claims regarding the event, which is scheduled to take place from November 24-26.
The rumours are understood to have been triggered by a UK Foreign Office update on Sunday, which said British tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates should be wary of the increased threat of terrorist attacks.
The latest advice on the FCDO website provided an "updated assessment that the risk of terrorist attacks happening in the UAE is very likely".
However, this is the same advice currently issued for other countries such as Germany, France, Belgium and Bahrain, with F1 having raced in the latter two this year.
The updated guidance is understood not to be related to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
The conflict ignited on October 7 after a deadly attack by Hamas on Israel, which has responded with ongoing military action.
More than 1,400 Israelis died in Hamas's multi-pronged surprise attack last month, Israel said, while more than 9,000 Palestinians have died in attacks in response from Israel's Defence Forces on Gaza since, the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry has said.
Drivers expressed concern during last year's Saudi Arabian GP when there was a missile attack on an oil facility close to the Jeddah circuit, but eventually decided to go ahead with the race after a lengthy meeting.
Formula 1 is currently in Brazil for this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix, with drivers set to speak to the media later on Thursday.
