Formula 1 Cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix Amid Middle East Conflict

Formula 1 (F1) and its governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), have officially canceled the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix scheduled for April 2026 due to escalating safety concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The Bahrain Grand Prix was set for April 12, followed by the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah on April 19. This decision was made after careful evaluations and consultations with local promoters, reflecting the serious implications of the U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran that began on February 28, 2026.

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The conflict has led to missile and drone strikes affecting both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, raising significant safety concerns for teams, personnel, and spectators. Bahrain, in particular, has been targeted due to its proximity to Iran and its status as a host for U.S. military operations. The FIA emphasized that the safety and well-being of the F1 community were paramount in making this decision. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated, “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.”

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The logistical challenges of organizing races under such conditions were compounded by the need to transport equipment and personnel to the region. With a hard deadline for freight shipments approaching, F1 faced immense pressure to make a timely decision. The cancellation leaves a five-week gap in the calendar between the Japanese Grand Prix on March 29 and the Miami Grand Prix on May 3, reducing the season from 24 to 22 races.

F1 poised to axe Bahrain, Saudi Arabia over Middle East war

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali remarked, “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 expressed gratitude to the FIA and local promoters for their understanding and support, emphasizing the hope to return to both venues once conditions allow.

F1 axes Bahrain, Saudi Arabia over Middle East war

The decision has been met with support from local organizers. Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain International Circuit, stated, “We fully support the decision by Formula 1, and we are grateful to them and to the FIA for their support and enduring partnership.” Similarly, Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal of Saudi Arabia expressed respect for the decision, acknowledging the considerations behind it.

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While the decision has been largely supported, some voices within the F1 community have expressed disappointment over the lost opportunities for fans and teams. The cancellations are expected to have significant financial implications, with estimates suggesting a potential loss of over $100 million in hosting fees and associated revenues. Teams and drivers have indicated that while the financial impact is concerning, the priority remains safety amid the ongoing conflict.

BREAKING: F1 cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix

With the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, F1 will now focus on the upcoming races in Miami and beyond. The FIA has not ruled out the possibility of rescheduling the events later in the year, but logistical challenges and a packed calendar make this unlikely. The situation remains fluid, and the F1 community continues to monitor developments in the Middle East closely.

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• “ FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: "The FIA will always place the safety and well-being of our community and colleagues first.” — Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

F1 confirms cancellation of Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to war in Middle East as 2026 calendar reduced to 22 races

• “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.” — Stefano Domenicali, F1 CEO

F1 confirms cancellation of Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to war in Middle East as 2026 calendar reduced to 22 races

This cancellation marks a significant moment in the F1 calendar, reflecting the broader geopolitical tensions affecting the region and the sport's commitment to safety.

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