Formula 1 appears to delay decision on two Middle East races in April affected by Iran war
Formula 1 officials are assessing safety and logistical risks amid missile strikes in Gulf states, with a final decision on April races expected by March 29, potentially leaving a five-week calendar gap.
- This weekend, F1 officials are weighing alternatives for the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix amid safety concerns from US-Israel strikes on Iran, with a decision due by March 29.
- Motorsport bodies point to the FIA postponing the World Endurance Championship race in Qatar due to regional safety concerns, while F1 president Stefano Domenicali said 'First of all, our approach first of all is safety for all of the relevant stakeholders, people and the promoter itself'.
- Victoria's government said it is willing to discuss hosting a second Melbourne Grand Prix if needed, with alternatives like Suzuka, Portimao, Istanbul, or Imola floated, ESPN reports.
- If cancelled, F1 would face a month-long gap between the Japanese Grand Prix and Miami Grand Prix, while teams must ship equipment to Bahrain immediately after the Chinese Grand Prix if races proceed.
- ESPN reports the likely outcome is the two races will be cancelled and not replaced due to limited preparation time, affecting broadcasters and commercial plans before the Chinese and Japanese Grand Prix.
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53 Articles
The 2026 Formula 1 season's race calendar could undergo serious changes, with the escalating armed conflict in the Middle East affecting the series' two April races.
Formula 1 is on the verge of possible race cancellations in the Middle East. A replacement may not be possible. Will the race calendar be shortened?
"Under all these circumstances, Formula 1 is clearly getting into the background," said Mercedes team leader Toto Wolff, looking at the current war situation in the Middle East. Of course, the Iran war is also a defining topic in the Formula 1 paddock in Melbourne's Albert Park. Also, because the billion-dollar circle is to travel to the Persian Gulf in five weeks after the races in China and Japan – whether Bahrain and Saudi Arabia actually "ge…
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