Shanghai, China – The International Automobile Federation (FIA) announced on Sunday the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix. These races were scheduled for next April as part of the fourth and fifth rounds of the Formula 1 World Championship. This decision came against the backdrop of the ongoing war in the Middle East.
Security assessments behind the decision
The federation explained in an official statement that, after careful assessments of the situation, it was decided not to hold the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races during the month of April.
Dates were set for April
The Bahrain Grand Prix was scheduled to take place between April 10 and 12. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia was to host its race between April 17 and 19. This decision comes amid escalating tensions and attacks targeting several Gulf states since late February.
Safety is the priority, according to the head of the union
The statement quoted FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem as affirming that the safety and well-being of all those involved in motorsport will remain a top priority. Additionally, he expressed his hope for a swift return to calm and stability in the region.
The importance of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in the tournament
Ben Sulayem noted that Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are key stops on the Formula 1 calendar. Their growing stature in hosting international races has increased their importance. However, the federation did not provide any official estimate of the financial losses resulting from the cancellation of the two events.
Estimates of losses in the millions of dollars
In contrast, British media outlets, including the BBC and The Independent, reported that cancelling the two races could result in total losses estimated at tens of millions of dollars. The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix are prominent sporting, economic, and media events. These attract hundreds of thousands of Formula 1 fans annually.
Cancellation had been on the table since the beginning of the war
The possibility of canceling or postponing the two races had been under consideration since the outbreak of the war. This was given the growing security concerns. Furthermore, a source familiar with the matter told AFP on Friday that the events were either likely to be canceled or rescheduled.
The 2026 calendar has been reduced to 22 races following the cancellation of the first two rounds. The second race of the season is scheduled to take place in Shanghai, China. Afterward, the Suzuka race in Japan will be held on March 29. The championship then moves to the United States for the Miami race in early May.
