FIA President Calls for Stability as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Gulf F1 and WEC Plans

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem issued a statement as the Middle East conflict intensifies, mourning the loss of life and urging a swift return to stability. Missile strikes across Qatar, Bahrain, the UAE, Kuwait, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia have already forced the cancellation of a two‑day Pirelli test in Bahrain and left some Pirelli, McLaren and Mercedes staff stranded.

Why it matters:

The turmoil threatens the start of the FIA’s 2026 calendar in the Gulf. With the World Endurance Championship set to begin in Qatar later this month and Formula 1 races scheduled in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in April, any further escalation could force postponements, disrupt logistics and raise safety concerns for teams, officials and fans.

The details:

• Missile strikes followed a U.S.-Israel airstrike on Iran on Saturday, prompting retaliatory attacks across the region.
• The Bahrain Pirelli test, planned for two days, was canceled as airspace and airports closed, stranding employees from Pirelli, McLaren and Mercedes.
• The FIA is in close contact with its Member Clubs, championship promoters, teams and on‑ground colleagues, monitoring developments.
• Upcoming events: WEC season opener in Qatar later this month; F1 Grands Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in April.

What's next:

The FIA will continue to assess the security situation and will make decisions on race schedules based on safety and the well‑being of all involved. Ben Sulayem emphasizes that dialogue and civilian protection must remain priorities, and he hopes for a rapid de‑escalation that allows the Gulf races to proceed as planned.