ormula 1 has officially canceled the 2026 Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The announcement was made from Shanghai during the Chinese Grand Prix weekend. The cancellations create a 35-day gap between the Japanese GP on March 29 and the Miami GP on May 3. Bahrain had been scheduled for April 12, and Saudi Arabia for April 19.
The decision also impacts support series, including Formula 2 and Formula 3 rounds in Bahrain, as well as the F1 Academy event in Saudi Arabia. The FIA stated: “After careful evaluations, due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East region, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April. Several alternatives were considered, but no substitutions will be made. F2, F3, and F1 Academy rounds are also canceled.â€
The conflict, triggered by U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran starting February 28, has led to airspace closures and significant travel restrictions. Reports indicate that over 1,000 civilians, including Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, were killed.
Logistical challenges compounded the decision, with teams unable to retrieve freight already at Bahrain International Circuit. McLaren CEO Zak Brown acknowledged potential financial impacts but emphasized that safety and geopolitical concerns take priority. Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, starting Sunday’s race on pole, said: “My thoughts are with those suffering from this situation. F1 and the FIA are handling it to ensure safety for everyone.â€
Dropping two races from the calendar is expected to have financial implications, though F1 officials confirmed no rescheduling for April. Motorsport series worldwide, including the World Endurance Championship, have also adjusted schedules in response to the conflict.