By midday, however, the tailbacks had eased as more fans followed police directions and left their cars a safe distance from the circuit.

BBC: F1 pledge to beat weather

The spokesman said the BIC is "absolutely confident" that the Bahrain circuit will be safe for the drivers and teams.

CNN: BIC: 'Bahrain Grand Prix will go ahead'

"We're sorry for the public but the circuit isn't safe, " Di Luca said.

CNN: Cavendish takes stage after riders protest