An armoured personnel carrier drives past adverts for the Bahrain Grand Prix
The Bahrain Grand Prix has been called off because of anti-government protests in the Gulf kingdom.
The race, due to be staged on 13 March, would have opened the new season but had been in doubt for more than a week because of the civil unrest. Instead, the 2011 campaign will begin in Australia on 27 March.
"We must focus on immediate issues of national interest and leave the hosting to a later date," said Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
"After the events of the past week, our nation's priority is on overcoming tragedy, healing divisions and rediscovering the fabric that draws this country together; reminding the world of the very best that Bahrain is capable of as a nation once again united."
The race could still be rescheduled but organisers said in a statement that no decision had been taken yet.
The Bahrain GP has been on the F1 calendar every year since 2004.
"It is sad that Bahrain has had to withdraw from the race, we wish the whole nation well as they begin to heal their country," said F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone.
"The hospitality and warmth of the people of Bahrain is a hallmark of the race there, as anyone who has been at a Bahrain Grand Prix will testify. We look forward to being back in Bahrain soon."
Demonstrators are demanding that the ruling monarchy gives up its near-absolute control over key policies and positions.
Australian driver Mark Webber, who finished third in last year's championship, supports the decision to postpone the race.
"They know what is going on out there and they have made their call so let's go to Melbourne. Back to the good old days.
"It would have been nice to go to Bahrain but we have to wait a bit longer to have our first race and that just happens to be my home race," said Webber. "I always look forward to going down there. It's a sensational event.
"We are in good shape as a team so we hope to go there and have a very good result."
http://news.bbc.co.uk
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