F1's Ecclestone weighing Bahrain race move

LONDON, Feb. 19 (UPI) -- Formula One chief executive Bernie Ecclestone says next month's season-opening grand prix in Bahrain is uncertain with civil unrest in the Persian Gulf kingdom.

Ecclestone told The Scotsman Saturday he is monitoring events in Manama and will continue to do so before making a definite decision on whether the March 11-13 Bahrain Grand Prix will go on as scheduled.

"From a realistic point of view it appears that things are changing hourly," Ecclestone said. "I feel the most important thing now is to wait until after the weekend, to see what happens over the next few days, and then make a decision next Tuesday or Wednesday."

The F1 chief said prospects for the event were "more hopeful" Friday, a day after police had stormed a camp of demonstrators in Manama, killing four and injuring hundreds.

The Scotsman said F1 officials have inquired to see if Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya would be available to host a relocated Bahrain Grand Prix.