Qatar race in doubt

[Dare]

It's a sad World we live in.


https://www.planetf1.com/news/f1-update-qatar-gp-status-bombing

[Jericoke]

Certainly we come here to discuss the sport itself.  Sometimes the political nuance of rules interpretation, contract negotiations or poaching of technical talent.  Sports is meant to be an escape from the real world, where we can focus our tribal instincts on backing the red cars, or booing the drivers known for taking too many risks. 

When the discussion moves beyond that, it becomes very complicated.  It takes the fun out of it for sure, and puts our friendships at genuine risk.

Knowing that discussing politics is a risk, I really do not like the middle east being involved in F1 (and vice versa).  While the vast majority of middle eastern people are as kind and generous as anyone I know, their countries are still ruled by medieval standards and a tribalism that simply isn't welcome in the future that Formula 1 purports to be emblematic of.  Whether the attacks on Doha are deserved or not (I'd vote not), as long as they're stuck in the middle of whatever 'it' is, Formula 1 shouldn't be there.  And we know it's not just Qatar, it's not just a couple of tracks.  There are owners and sponsors who are also not up to the standards F1 should be promoting.  I know that a few dollars goes a long way, and they're bringing more than a few, but F1 must find a way to change involvement from people who bring very real danger to sport and it's competitors.

[cosworth151]

The closest analogy I can think of is the 2001 USGP at Indianapolis. It was scheduled for October 11th, 1 month to the day after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Right now a wait and see approach looks lick the best option. It's far too late to try for an alternate venue.

In the end, the 2001 USGP went ahead. Just prior to the start of the race, John Mellencamp, from nearby Seymour Indiana, did a live performance of his song Peaceful World. I was there. It was one of the most moving moments I've ever know.