JIDDAH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Sergio Perez takes his first career pole position at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as Formula One races on amid heavy scrutiny, the day after an attack on a nearby oil depot.

The focus is on why F1 goes ahead with racing despite the attack on the depot about 11 kilometers from the track.

Congrats to @SChecoPerez on getting his first pole, very well deserved after that incredible lap 💪

P4 after quite a disappointing qualifying session for me. Couldn’t find the grip and balance to attack the corners

We have a good race car so still all to fight for tomorrow 😤 pic.twitter.com/ulcB1TOVx5

— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) March 26, 2022

Lewis Hamilton is usually outspoken on human rights and other issues.

But this time he said little about the collective decision to race other than he’s eager to get home. He qualified in a dismal 16th place.

Haas driver Mick Schumacher crashed heavily but his team said he was physically fine as he went by helicopter to hospital for precautionary checks.