F1 Middle East Races in Doubt
The Bahrain (April 12) and Saudi Arabian (April 19) Grands Prix are on the verge of cancellation due to the escalating conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel [https://onefootball.com/en/news/f1-may-cancel-bahrain-saudi-arabia-gps-over-middle-east-conflict-42551089]. The FIA has "practically decided" to cancel both events, with official confirmation expected next week [https://onefootball.com/en/news/f1-may-cancel-bahrain-saudi-arabia-gps-over-middle-east-conflict-42551089]. The situation is complicated by cyberattacks and explosions reported in Dubai [https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/iran-israel-war-live-updates-us-middle-east-crisis-news-mojtaba-khamenei-iran-new-supreme-leader-donald-trump-netanyahu-dubai-11187798].
The escalating conflict has led to the likely cancellation of both the Bahrain (April 12) and Saudi Arabian (April 19) Grands Prix. The FIA is expected to make an official announcement soon, possibly during the Chinese Grand Prix weekend. If confirmed, the 2026 F1 season would be reduced to 22 races. The decision prioritizes the safety of teams, drivers, and personnel, with the FIA president emphasizing "safety and wellbeing". Factors include missile strikes in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, and heavy flight disruptions in the Persian Gulf. A recent Pirelli tire test in Bahrain was also canceled due to security concerns. While Saudi Arabian organizers are reportedly trying to keep their race on the calendar, the fate of both events is linked. Canceling both Middle East races would create a month-long gap in the F1 schedule, between the Japanese GP (March 29) and the Miami GP (May 3). F1 is unlikely to slot in last-minute replacements.
