F1 Cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian GPs Amid Middle East Crisis
Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Formula 1 has officially confirmed that the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. The decision follows security assessments conducted in coordination with the sport’s governing body and regional stakeholders.
The two races were originally scheduled as a double-header in April, beginning with the Bahrain Grand Prix on April 10–12 at the Bahrain International Circuit, followed by the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on April 17–19 at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. However, escalating tensions in the region have led organisers to cancel both events.
The cancellation also impacts the support series that were due to race alongside Formula 1. Rounds of FIA Formula 2, FIA Formula 3, and F1 Academy will not take place on their originally scheduled dates.
According to the governing body, the decision was reached after extensive consultations with multiple stakeholders. Alternative options were explored, but the current Formula 1 calendar does not provide space to reschedule the races later in the season.
“It has been confirmed today that, after careful evaluations, due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East region, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April,” stated the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile in an official announcement.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali acknowledged that the decision was difficult but necessary given the current circumstances.
“While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East,” Domenicali said.
With the removal of the two April races, the championship calendar will now feature a five-week gap. Following the Japanese Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit on March 29, the season will resume at the Miami Grand Prix at the Miami International Autodrome on May 3.
The disruption highlights how geopolitical developments can directly affect the global motorsport calendar, forcing Formula 1 to adjust the early rhythm of the 2026 championship season.
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