FIA, Liberty Media and the 11 teams of Formula 1 are discussing the potential return of the Bahrain Grand Prix to the 2026 calendar after it was previously canceled due to regional conflict.
According to sources familiar with the talks, the race could be rescheduled for October 4, fitting between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix (September 26) and the Singapore Grand Prix (October 11). No final decision has been made, and contingency plans are also being explored for the season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Earlier speculation suggested the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah could return later in the calendar, but that scenario is now considered unlikely due to logistical constraints and scheduling conflicts with the FIA’s awards event in Shanghai.
The discussions highlight the financial importance of the Middle East to Formula 1. The cancellation of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia—amid escalating tensions linked to the Iran conflict—has significantly impacted revenues. A report from Guggenheim Partners estimated losses of around $200 million in annual revenue and $80 million in EBITDA.
Reinstating the Bahrain race could help recover part of that shortfall, with promoter fees reportedly exceeding $50 million. However, uncertainty remains due to ongoing geopolitical risks, including a fragile ceasefire and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The 2026 Formula 1 season, paused since the Japanese Grand Prix in March, is set to resume on May 3 with the Miami Grand Prix.