Manama, Feb 18: The unrest in Bahrain is likely to have its first sporting casualty in the form of the Formula One Grand Prix that is scheduled for Mar 13.

According to a report published by Reuters, F1 commercial chief, Bernie Ecclestone, has informed that the Formula One Grand Prix may be called off.

He is quoted as saying, "We'll make a decision by Tuesday or Wednesday...If it's not quietened down by Wednesday, I think we will have to cancel probably."

Bahrain is in the midst of violent anti-government protests that seems to have gripped the whole Arab World. Governments in Egypt and Tunisia have already been toppled while Iran, Yemen, Bahrain and Algeria continue to be on the boil, with protests being held against regimes growing stronger with every passing day.

If the Bahrain Grand Prix gets canceled then, the Australian Grand Prix will be in all probabilities, the season opener for Formula One racing. It will now be interesting to see if the governing body can reschedule the event in 2011 where 20 races are scheduled to happen.

OneIndia News