Bernie Ecclestone out to learn from Bahrain fiasco

Bernie Ecclestone has acted to resolve the issues surrounding the Formula One calendar following the Bahrain Grand Prix saga this week.

In a letter, released yesterday, from FIA president Jean Todt to the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA), the Frenchman requested commercial rights holder Ecclestone resubmit a new calendar.

In the wake of last Friday's World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) hearing in Barcelona, the 26-man panel voted for Bahrain to be restored. It was decided the race, postponed in February due to political unrest in the country, would take India's 30 October slot, with the latter inaugural event switched to 11 December.

However, a backlash followed, with FOTA writing to the FIA bemoaning logistical and insurance challenges. Ecclestone then confirmed earlier this week the race would not go ahead this year. With the ball in Ecclestone's court he said: "We have to put it to the World Council. I sent something this morning, so it will be quick."

"I don't know whether there is peace (in Bahrain] or not, I've no idea. The FIA sent somebody out to check and they said it was all okay."