Formula 1 Cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Races Amid Iran Conflict

Formula 1 (F1) is set to cancel the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, scheduled for April, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, multiple sources confirmed on Friday. The decision comes as both countries have been targeted by attacks in response to strikes from the United States and Israel against Iran.

Logistical Concerns Drive Decision

The cancellations were reported by ESPN, USA Today, and Sky Sports. A key factor in the swift decision is the logistical deadline for teams to begin transporting freight to the Middle East for the races. With the Bahrain Grand Prix slated for April 12 and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for April 19, a decision needed to be made imminently.

Reduced 2026 Season

The cancellations will reduce the 2026 F1 season from 24 races to 22. It is highly unlikely that the canceled races will be replaced, given the tightly packed schedule for the remainder of the year. This will create a five-week gap in the calendar between the Japanese Grand Prix on March 29 and the Miami Grand Prix on May 3.

Safety Concerns Paramount

Safety is the primary concern driving the decision. Both Bahrain’s Manama and other Gulf states have experienced missile attacks. F1 does not wish to risk a championship outcome being influenced by a race cancellation later in the season due to escalating conflict.

Industry Response

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton expressed confidence in F1’s leadership to make the right decision, stating, “I grasp that [F1 CEO] Stefano [Domenicali] will do what is right for all of us and the sport.” ESPN reported this statement made by Hamilton in Shanghai ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix.

Possible Replacement Locations Considered, But Unlikely

Portugal’s Portimão and Italy’s Imola circuits have been mentioned as potential replacements, but organizers believe there isn’t sufficient time to organize events for April. Sky Sports confirmed this.

An official announcement is expected by the end of the weekend.