F1 calendar cut
Formula 1’s 2026 calendar has been trimmed to 22 races after the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were cancelled — a direct hit to the season’s geopolitical footprint — and Mercedes has kept up a dominant run, winning every race so far including the Australian GP, a dominance Jacques Villeneuve says isn’t comparable to 2014–21 eras GPFans Motorsport.com.
F1 and the FIA officially announced the cancellations on March 14, 2026, citing the ongoing situation in the region in a joint statement. (motorsport.com) The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix had been scheduled for April 10–12, 2026, and the STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for April 17–19, 2026 on the published 2026 itinerary. (formula1.com) Formula 1 has said the two April rounds will not be replaced on the 2026 calendar, closing off contingency plans for substitute events that had been discussed in paddock briefings. (skysports.com) Bahrain organisers have opened formal ticket-refund procedures and published guidance for ticketholders who bought through local promoters and official channels. (timeoutbahrain.com) Mercedes delivered consecutive 1–2 results: George Russell won the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, 2026, and team‑mate Kimi Antonelli claimed his maiden victory at the Chinese Grand Prix on March 15, 2026, with Mercedes reporting 1–2 finishes in both weekends. (formula1.com) 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve has publicly argued that the team’s early 2026 form “is not like 2014,” reminding commentators that Mercedes enjoyed a multi‑year engine lead back then and saying rivals are better prepared under the current rule changes. (motorsport.com)
