Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Formula 1 has issued an official response following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, as regional instability begins to impact motorsport operations ahead of the 2026 season. The development comes after the cancellation of a scheduled tyre test in Bahrain.
Single tyre supplier Pirelli confirmed that a planned two-day wet-weather development test at Bahrain International Circuit had been cancelled due to security concerns. The test was set to involve mule cars supplied by Mercedes and McLaren, with artificial track wetting procedures designed to collect critical data on wet compounds.
In a statement to RacingNews365, Pirelli confirmed that all personnel currently in Manama are safe and that arrangements are being made for their return to Italy and the United Kingdom. The cancellation followed reports of missile strikes in the region amid escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
Formula 1 clarified that its opening three rounds of the 2026 season — Australia, China and Japan — are not located in the Middle East and remain unaffected at this stage. A spokesperson stated that F1 continues to closely monitor developments and maintains communication with relevant authorities as part of its standard risk assessment procedures.
The Australian Grand Prix will take place in Melbourne from March 6–8, followed by the Chinese Grand Prix on March 13–15. The Bahrain Grand Prix is scheduled as the fourth round of the championship on April 10–12, with Qatar and the United Arab Emirates also set to host races later in the season.
The situation is also being monitored by the FIA World Endurance Championship, which is due to stage its Prologue and Qatar 1812km event later in March. Championship officials confirmed ongoing communication with Qatari authorities, reiterating that the safety of competitors, personnel and fans remains the absolute priority.
With multiple international events scheduled across the Gulf region throughout 2026, further operational decisions will depend on the evolving security landscape. Additional updates are expected from both championships should circumstances require adjustments to the calendar.
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