PARIS: Formula One races scheduled in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been cancelled as the ongoing Middle East conflict continues to escalate across the region, Pakistan Digital News reported.
Motorsport’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), confirmed the decision on Saturday, saying that the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will no longer take place in April.
In an official statement, the FIA said that after careful evaluation of the situation in the Middle East, it was decided that the races could not be held safely. The organization added that although several alternative options were considered, no replacement races will be added to the April calendar.
The decision was made after consultations with Formula One Group, local race promoters, and regional motorsport authorities.
Bahrain was originally scheduled to host the fourth race of the Formula One season from April 10 to April 12, while the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was planned for the following week.
The Gulf region has experienced rising tensions and security concerns following weeks of drone and missile attacks reportedly linked to the ongoing war involving Iran. Bahrain, located close to Iran across the Gulf, has faced repeated attacks that have damaged buildings, an oil refinery, and areas near a major U.S. military base.
Saudi Arabia has also experienced multiple strikes, some of which targeted important oil infrastructure belonging to the world’s largest crude oil exporter.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized that safety remains the top priority for the organization.
“The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first,” he said. “After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.”
He also expressed hope that stability will return to the region soon so that Formula One can return to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in the future.
Meanwhile, drivers competing in the Chinese Grand Prix also shared their thoughts on the situation. Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who secured pole position ahead of George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, said his thoughts were with those affected by the conflict.
“I think all of us are thinking about the people who are suffering from this situation,” the 19-year-old driver said.
Despite the cancellations, the Formula One season will continue with the Japanese Grand Prix scheduled for March 27-29, followed by the Miami Grand Prix from May 1-3.
Other racing series including Formula 2, Formula 3, and F1 Academy events that were planned to take place alongside the Bahrain and Saudi race weekends have also been cancelled.
In addition, neighboring Qatar has also faced security concerns. The opening round of the World Endurance Championship (WEC), which was scheduled for March 26-28, has now been postponed until October.
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