Formula 1 teams powerless to prevent Bahrain Grand Prix

The Formula One Teams Association has said that it has no say on whether next weekend's scheduled Bahrain Grand Prix will go ahead.

Last year's race in the Persian Gulf was cancelled because of protests and there are strong rumours that the same could happen next week.

F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone admitted that it is possible that teams may decide not to feature.

He said: "We can't force teams to take part. They would be in breach of contracts if they didn't, but we would deal with that matter as a separate issue."

The Teams Association, which represents seven of the 12 teams, released a statement denying that it has control over whether the race goes ahead.

"There's been some media speculation recently to the effect that the teams may seek to cancel this year's Bahrain Grand Prix," the statement read.

"That wouldn't be possible. Teams are unable to cancel grands prix. We race in an international series called the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, and it is therefore for the FIA to offer the Teams guidance on these issues."

Chiefs at the Bahrain International Circuit recently insisted that it is safe for this year's race to go ahead.