F1 and FIA bosses explain why they voted for Saudi GP to go ahead despite missile attack

Formula 1's top officials and team bosses have explained why the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix wasn't immediately cancelled in the wake of the missile attack which rocked Jeddah on Friday. The blast took place at an Aramco fuel facility on the outskirts of the city, with the smoke and flames visible from the Corniche Circuit.

The explosion took place during the first practice session of the weekend, with Max Verstappen reporting over team radio that he could smell the smoke. There was a delay to the second session of the day, but FP2 went ahead as planned before all the team principals and drivers piled into the stewards' offices to be briefed on the situation.

Houthi rebels from Yemen have claimed responsibility for a series of similar attacks on Saudi Arabia. The facility attacked is the same one which was also targeted in a similar incident just a few days ago. The fact all those attacks have been focussed on oil facilities appears to have convinced F1 bosses that it is safe to race this weekend.

"Formula 1 has been in close contact with the relevant authorities following the situation that took place today," an F1 statement said. "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."

JUST IN: F1 drivers 'unanimously agreed' as Saudi Arabian GP goes ahead

Moments after the end of that meeting, F1 chief Stefano Domenicali told reporters: "We've received all assurances that the country's safety comes first, no matter the situation. Safety has to be guaranteed, they are here with their families, so they have in place all the systems to protect this area. We have to trust the local authorities in that respect