F1 races in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia cancelled: The war between US-Israel and Iran is not stopping. The impact of the war is not limited to these countries only, but the entire Middle East has come within its scope. The impact of the war in the Middle East is beginning to be seen on sports as well. Recently, during the T20 World Cup, many teams had to face problems while returning home. Now Formula-1 has made a big change in the 2026 season.
Formula 1 took a big decision
Amid the Iran-Israel war, Formula 1 has announced the postponement of the Grand Prix races of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. These races were originally scheduled for April, with the Bahrain Grand Prix on 12 April and the Saudi Arabia (Jeddah) Grand Prix on 19 April. This decision has been taken due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. After the attacks on Iran by America and Israel, many Gulf countries have been affected in retaliation by Iran, due to which the security threat in the region has increased. Formula-1 and FIA have taken this step giving priority to the safety of players, staff and fans.
The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April
Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East the Grands Prix, alongside F2, F3, and F1 Academy rounds, will not take place as scheduled.
While alternatives were considered, no substitutions will be made in pic.twitter.com/wsgXUR2FKn
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 14, 2026
F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said that this decision was difficult, but right considering the current situation. FIA President Mohammad Bin Sulayem also talked about keeping the safety and well-being of everyone above all. He told that Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are important parts of the season, and these races are expected to return when the conditions become normal. Promoters from both the countries have also supported this decision.
New dates will be announced soon
No new dates have been announced yet and no alternative races will be held in April. This will leave a big gap of five weeks in the season, after Japan Grand Prix (29 March) the next race will be Miami Grand Prix (3 May). At the same time, if these races are not scheduled again, then the 2026 season will have 22 races instead of 24, which will be the shortest calendar after 2023.