Dariya ePrix: ballistic missile intercepted during fireworks display
Just after the finish of the Dariya ePrix, the first round of the 2021 Formula E World Championship, a ballistic missile was intercepted a short distance from the circuit, as the fireworks celebrating the race finish were taking place.
This event concludes a tumultuous Formula E weekend marked by two serious accidents (Edoardo Mortara’s accident during the free practice session, caused by a brake failure, and a more severe accident involving Alex Lynn, which resulted in his car flipping over and leading to the end of race 2).
We are thankful that Alex Lynn is well after this accident. Testament to the medical staff, marshals and the @FIA who keep our sport safe. ???? to Mitch Evans who abandoned his race to run to Alex’s aid. #ABBFormulaE #DiriyahEPrix @alexlynnracing @mitchevans_ pic.twitter.com/hp7FTNYR8w
— ABB FIA Formula E World Championship (@FIAFormulaE) February 28, 2021
This missile was identified and intercepted. It came from the Yemeni Houthi rebels group. It was destroyed above Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia: The coalition led by the Saudis fighting the Houthi militia thwarted a ballistic missile attack by the Houthis in the Saudi capital Riyadh, as reported on Al-Ekhbariya, the local television channel based in Riyadh.
Video of Patriot Missile interception over #Riyadh, #KSA in the last 15 minutes. Unknown target at the moment. pic.twitter.com/Fga2oSZWrI
— Aurora Intel (@AuroraIntel) February 27, 2021
This terrorist attack (whose motivations and target have not yet been established) raises fears and doubts about the Saudi Arabian Formula 1 Grand Prix (which is scheduled to take place on December 5 on the urban circuit of Jeddah), with the security of the F1 and FIA personnel and drivers at stake. It is also worth noting that the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, was attending the race.
