Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Mohammed Ben Sulayem has outlined the key reasons behind the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix from the 2026 Formula 1 calendar. The decision follows escalating geopolitical tensions across the Middle East.
Regional stability deteriorated after the outbreak of conflict involving Iran and retaliatory military actions linked to the United States and Israel. With the security environment becoming increasingly volatile, organisers reconsidered plans to stage races at the Bahrain International Circuit and the Jeddah Corniche Circuit during April.
Logistical challenges were also a major factor behind the early decision. Transporting Formula 1 freight and equipment between continents requires extensive coordination, and uncertainty in the region created risks for the shipment of team cargo and race infrastructure ahead of the scheduled events.
The governing body therefore concluded that an early call was necessary to provide clarity for teams, promoters and championship stakeholders. As a result, the two races have been removed from the April schedule, and no replacement events will take their place during that period.
“The FIA will always place the safety and well-being of our community and colleagues first,” Ben Sulayem said in an official statement from the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile.
“We continue to hope for calm, safety and a swift return to stability in the region. Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are incredibly important to the ecosystem of our racing season, and I look forward to returning as soon as circumstances allow.”
The cancellation significantly reshapes the early phase of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Following the Japanese Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit, the championship will pause before resuming at the Miami Grand Prix at the Miami International Autodrome.
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