F1 Cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix Amid Middle East Conflict

Summary

• Formula One officially called off the upcoming races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia
• Safety concerns surrounding the ongoing war in the Middle East prompted the immediate cancellation
• The decision leaves teams with an extended break to adapt to the sport’s new regulations

Formula One has officially pulled the plug on the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix due to the escalating war in the Middle East, as per The Guardian. The back-to-back race weekends, originally slated for April 12 and April 19, have been scrapped entirely from the 2026 calendar as the sport prioritizes the safety of its teams, drivers, and global community.

With Bahrain’s Sakhir circuit situated a mere 20 miles from a targeted US military base, the risk factor simply became too high to ignore. Freight meant for the upcoming races was already paralyzed in the region following pre-season testing, leaving executives with no choice but to halt further shipments and eliminate the stops. In a coordinated move with the FIA, Formula One confirmed that no alternative venues will be slotted in for the month of April. Support events, including Formula 2, Formula 3, and the F1 Academy, have also been axed from the schedule.

“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,” a statement read. “While several alternatives were considered, it was ultimately decided that no substitutions will be made in April.”

The statement continued, “The Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds will also not take place during their scheduled times. The decision has been taken in full consultation with the FIA and respective promoters.”

The cancellation creates a massive five-week void between the third round in Japan on March 29 and the eventual fourth round in Miami on May 3.

F1’s chief executive Stefano Domenicali said, “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.” He added, “I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion. We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so.”

The FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, shared, “The FIA will always place the safety and well being of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.”