F1 Bahrain, Saudi Races in Doubt
The F1 calendar's in limbo with a decision pending on whether the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will proceed due to the Middle East conflict [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7111354/2026/03/12/f1-bahrain-saudi-arabia-decision/, https://nationaltoday.com/us/fl/miami/news/2026/03/12/f1-teams-await-decision-on-bahrain-saudi-arabia-races-after-middle-east-war/]. F1 leadership is consulting with authorities, and a final call is expected after the Chinese Grand Prix [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7111354/2026/03/12/f1-bahrain-saudi-arabia-decision/].
F1 is considering cancelling the Bahrain (April 10-12) and Saudi Arabian (April 17-19) races due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, specifically the U.S. and Israel–Iran war. Both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been targets of retaliatory attacks by Iran. A final decision is expected by March 20. Cancelling both races would create a month-long break after the Japanese Grand Prix (March 27-29) and before the Miami Grand Prix (May 1-3). The 2026 season could be reduced to 22 races, down from the planned 24. In 2023, F1 cancelled the Chinese Grand Prix and the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, reducing the season. Saudi Arabian organizers are reportedly still trying to keep the Jeddah race on the calendar. However, the Saudi Grand Prix is closely tied to the Bahrain race, meaning cancellation of one could lead to the other being cancelled as well. A recent Pirelli tire test in Bahrain was already cancelled due to security concerns. If the races are cancelled, they are unlikely to be replaced. Several circuits have been suggested as potential replacement venues, including Imola, Portimao and Istanbul. Other possible locations include Fuji Speedway (Japan), Sepang International Circuit (Malaysia) and Chang International Circuit (Thailand).
