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

Formula 1 (F1) has confirmed the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, originally scheduled for April, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This decision reduces the 2026 F1 calendar to 22 races.

Cancellation Details

The Bahrain Grand Prix was slated to take place from April 10-12, followed by the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah from April 17-19. Both countries have been impacted by attacks stemming from the conflict, prompting the cancellation for safety reasons . F1 officials announced the cancellations ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix.

No Replacements Planned

Unlike some previous disruptions, neither the Bahrain nor the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will be replaced on the 2026 schedule . This results in a five-week gap between the Japanese Grand Prix (March 27-29) and the Miami Grand Prix (May 1-3) .

Impact on Supporting Races

The cancellations extend beyond Formula 1, also affecting the scheduled Formula 2, Formula 3, and F1 Academy rounds that were planned to coincide with the Bahrain-Saudi Arabia double header .

Statements from F1 Leadership

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, stated, “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.”

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

Safety Concerns

The decision to cancel the races was driven by safety concerns related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, including attacks on Gulf states in retaliation for US-Israeli air strikes .