Formula 1 session delayed after attack near Saudi circuit

The second Formula 1 practice session in Saudi Arabia was delayed after an attack on an oil depot just over 10km from the Jeddah street circuit.

A fire at the North Jeddah Bulk Plant was confirmed as an attack.

All drivers and team bosses were called to the Formula 1 office at the track after the attack was confirmed by Saudi media.

State-run Al Ekhbariya News says there was a "hostile operation" targeting the Jeddah oil depot, confirming reports from F1 media that smoke was seen billowing from the direction of the plant around 5.40pm local time, during Free Practice 1.

Smoke was visible during the broadcast with Red Bull driver Max Verstappen reporting an unusual smell on track.

In the meeting, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem reportedly updated drivers on the security situation, with Free Practice 2 delayed by fifteen minutes.

Another meeting will take place after the second practice session.