Former grand prix winner Johnny Herbert believes the right decision has been taken in scrapping this year’s Bahrain Grand Prix.
The race had been due to kick off the 2011 season in March but anti-government protests in the region meant it was postponed on safety grounds.
There was controversy when the FIA World Motor Sport Council confirmed the race had been reinstated on the calendar for October 30 – with the inaugural Indian Grand Prix being moved to December 11.
The decision was heavily criticised by the Formula One teams due to the logistical and insurance problems posed by the move, with F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone stating yesterday that the race was “not on”.
Bahrain International Circuit chairman Zayed R Alzayani admitted defeat in the bid to have the race held this year, and Herbert feels that ultimately the correct decision has been made.
The Briton, who started 161 races during an F1 career that included spells at Benetton, Tyrrell, Lotus, Ligier, Sauber, Stewart and Jaguar,said: “With the situation (in March), we could see what had been going on out there and you have to have it monitored.
“It was right in the end to cancel it. It can always go back on the calendar next year.
“In the media there will always be negativity with the uncertainty over whether we would go or not, it is a shame but as I say we can always go back and hopefully we will be back there at the start of next season and get the reception and support that we have had.
“It’s a very important event for the country and the region but this was the right decision and at least we didn’t actually go out there and then decide not to hold the race.”
