F1 drivers admit Saudi GP 'concerns' but agree to continue after attack

Formula 1's Saudi Arabian GP is set to go ahead despite concerns from drivers after an attack on an oil depot close to the Jeddah circuit.

F1's grid of 20 drivers met for over four hours after practice on Friday and talks - which included team bosses and F1 chiefs - continued until 2.30am local time on Saturday in Saudi Arabia.

The Grand Prix Drivers' Association - which all drivers are members of - released a statement on Saturday morning admitting a "difficult and stressful day" and "human concerns" in the wake of a missile attack on a nearby oil facility during Friday practice, but confirming they would continue after being assured that "security measures were being elevated to the maximum".

Sky Sports understands that while the lengthy meeting suggested some may have wanted to boycott, the drivers agreed that the event would continue.

On Saturday morning, F1 and the FIA reiterated that final practice and qualifying would go ahead as planned later, with Sunday's race to follow.

"Formula 1 and the FIA can confirm that following discussions with all the teams and drivers, the 2022 FIA Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will continue as scheduled," read a statement.

"Following the widely reported incident that took place in Jeddah on Friday, there has been extensive discussion between all stakeholders, the Saudi government authorities and security agencies who have given full and detailed assurances that the event is secure.

"It has been agreed with all stakeholders to maintain a clear and open dialogue throughout the event and for the future."

Shortly after, a statement from the GPDA meanwhile said: "Yesterday was a difficult day for Formula One and a stressful day for us Formula One drivers.

"Perhaps it is hard to