“A large variety of opinions were shared and debated and, having listened not only to the F1 powers but also to the Saudi government ministers – who explained how security measures were being elevated to the maximum – the outcome was a resolution that we would practise and qualify today and race tomorrow.
“We therefore hope that the 2022 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will be remembered as a good race rather than for the incident that took place yesterday.”
An F1 statement said: “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.”
The series of meetings to discuss the incident at the oil facility began before second practice, which was delayed by 15 minutes after the attack as team bosses and drivers were called to a meeting with F1 president Stefano Domenicali.
A second meeting started after second practice and continued into the early hours with senior figures.
A significant number of drivers had concerns about the safety of the event following the attack.
But eventually they were convinced to go ahead and race after being given further information by bosses.
Among the considerations, BBC Sport has been told, was the potential impact calling off the race might have – whether there could be delays in personnel or freight leaving the country, for example.
Links >>> Stream 1 HD Stream 2 HD Stream 3 HD Stream 4 HD
Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto said: “The drivers were concerned, all of us were concerned. We had assurances from the F1 and Saudi government – assurances that everything would be safe.
“They are still concerned but they listen to the reassurance we give them, and they understand the importance of staying here and racing. It was important for them to raise their voice. They are stars and it was important for them to make sure they are listened to.”
Among the assurances the teams and drivers received were that the Houthi rebels in Yemen who have claimed the attack are targeting infrastructure and not civilians or events.
It is likely that the events of the weekend will lead to discussions about the race’s future. Questions about the Saudi race’s viability have already been raised at senior levels of the sport
