F1 set to cancel Bahrain and Saudi Arabian GPs amid Middle East conflict

Formula 1 is expected to formally announce the cancellation of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix and the following Saudi Arabian Grand Prix this weekend. The decision follows the World Endurance Championship's (WEC) postponement of its Qatar event due to escalating geopolitical instability in the region, signaling that safety concerns are too significant for major motorsport series to proceed as planned.

Why it matters:

The cancellation of two opening rounds would blow an immediate hole in the F1 calendar, disrupting team logistics, revenue streams, and the competitive rhythm of the new season from the start. It underscores how external geopolitical events can directly and forcefully impact the global sporting schedule, prioritizing participant safety over commercial and sporting commitments.

The Details:

• The FIA World Endurance Championship acted first, officially postponing its season-opening Qatar 1812km race from late March to late October 2026 after what it described as "collaborative and constructive discussions" with local promoters.
• Safety Paramount: In its statement, WEC emphasized that "the safety and security of competitors, personnel and fans remain of the utmost importance," a principle F1 is now mirroring.
• Saudi Efforts Unsuccessful: RacingNews365 understands that Saudi Arabian officials recently lobbied F1 management to keep the Jeddah race on the calendar, but the ongoing regional instability proved an insurmountable hurdle.
• No Direct Replacement: Despite speculation about potential substitute venues like Imola—which will now host WEC's season opener—logistical and financial complexities mean F1 is not expected to fill the vacant April dates on the 2026 calendar.

What's next:

An official confirmation from Formula 1 and the FIA is anticipated imminently. The focus will then shift to the adjusted 2026 calendar and the operational impact on teams, who will have an unexpected extended gap after pre-season testing. This pause could alter early-season development plans and intensify focus on the next scheduled event, currently the Australian Grand Prix in April, assuming the calendar remains otherwise unchanged.