Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, has addressed fans following the decision to remove the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix from the 2026 calendar due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
Although the official announcement avoided explicitly using the word “cancelled,” the likelihood of the two races being rescheduled later in the season remains extremely low. With the championship calendar already tightly packed and logistics increasingly complex, the events should not currently be viewed as postponed.
With the regional situation showing little improvement, Formula 1 and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile were forced to take early action. The races originally planned for April at the Bahrain International Circuit and the Jeddah Corniche Circuit will therefore not take place as scheduled.
Domenicali acknowledged that the ruling was difficult but necessary, emphasising that safety must remain the priority for the championship and everyone involved.
“It’s an unfortunate situation, and a decision that had to be taken considering what is happening in that region,” Domenicali explained.
“When decisions like this have to be made, it is never easy. You have to look at the bigger picture.”
The Italian also thanked the FIA and the local race promoters for their understanding and cooperation in reaching a joint decision.
“I want to thank the FIA and the promoters, who fully understood the situation. We took this decision together for the benefit of the sport.”
Domenicali concluded by addressing Formula 1 fans directly, particularly those in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia who were looking forward to hosting the championship again this season.
“For the fans who are always following us: first of all, stay safe. We are thinking of you and we want to return as soon as possible,” he said.
“We feel the passion and love for Formula 1 in both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Stay tuned and continue to follow us — we will come back soon.”
With the two April rounds removed from the calendar, the championship will now feature a five-week gap after the Japanese Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit before the season resumes at the Miami Grand Prix at the Miami International Autodrome.
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Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix organisers react after Formula 1 cancels both April 2026 races due to the Middle East crisis.
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