Renault’s Heidfeld concerned about Bahrain GP decision

Renault driver Nick Heidfeld has called on Formula One’s chiefs to consider the feelings of the Bahraini people when it comes to deciding whether next month’s season-opening grand prix is held or not.

Formula One’s curtain-raiser in Manama on March 13 has been placed in doubt after days of unrest in the island kingdom where the army has clashed with anti-Government demonstrators.

German Heidfeld, who was last week confirmed as a Renault driver in the absence of injured Pole Robert Kubica, feels there is more at stake than just the safety of drivers, team personnel, media and fans.

“It is not only down to how it is for the drivers, but how it is to the general public, to everybody who visits, to all the spectators and whether the risk is too high,” said Heidfeld.

“It’s not just about the safety of those involved, but being sensitive to what is going on in the country.”

The GP2 Series race scheduled to take place in Bahrain this week has already been cancelled after pro-democracy protests that have led to deadly clashes with police, organisers said on Thursday.

Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone has said he will decide whether or not to cancel the Bahrain Grand Prix by Wednesday.

Ecclestone confirmed on Thursday he had spoken to Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa over prospects for the race.

“It’s not good is it?” he said. “We’ll have to keep our eye on things and make a decision quickly.

“I spoke to the Crown Prince. He doesn’t know any more than you or I, but they’re monitoring what is going on.

“Next week we will make a decision on what we are going to do.”