F1 Cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix Amid Iran-US-Israel Conflict
Formula One has cancelled the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix following escalating tensions in the Middle East linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel. According to Sportstar, the decision was confirmed after discussions between Formula One Management and the sport’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), citing safety concerns for drivers, teams and fans.
The Bahrain race had been scheduled for April 12 at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, while the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was planned for April 19 at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Both events were expected to be the fourth and fifth rounds of the 2026 Formula One World Championship before they were removed from the calendar.
The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 14, 2026
Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East the Grands Prix, alongside F2, F3, and F1 Academy rounds, will not take place as scheduled
While alternatives were considered, no substitutions will be made in… pic.twitter.com/wsgXUR2FKn
In a statement referenced by Sportstar, the FIA said the races would not take place in April due to the ongoing situation in the region. Officials added that while different alternatives were evaluated, organisers ultimately decided not to replace the cancelled events in the same month. The move also affects support series competitions, including Formula 2, Formula 3 and the F1 Academy races scheduled for the same venues.
The cancellation comes amid heightened security concerns following military actions and retaliatory strikes across parts of the Middle East. The conflict has raised risks for international events, with several countries in the region affected by missile and drone attacks targeting military facilities and strategic infrastructure.
Formula One leadership emphasised that the safety of everyone involved in the championship remains the highest priority. As a result of the cancellations, the 2026 F1 season calendar has been reduced and now includes a gap between the Japanese Grand Prix and the Miami Grand Prix, which will be the next race after the break.
While no replacement races are planned for April, organisers said they will continue monitoring the geopolitical situation. The decision underscores how global sporting events can be affected by wider international developments, particularly when safety and logistics are at stake.
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