FIA says safety and wellbeing will dictate Middle East race decisions amid rising tensions

The FIA is keeping a close watch on the fallout from a U.S.–Israel airstrike on Iran, warning that any decision about upcoming Middle‑Eastern races will be driven by safety and wellbeing. With Formula 1, MotoGP and the World Endurance Championship slated for Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in the coming weeks, the governing body is preparing contingency plans while urging dialogue and civilian protection.

Why it matters:

• The Middle‑East calendar accounts for a significant portion of the 2024 season’s points‑scoring rounds across three world championships.
• Disruptions could affect logistics, freight schedules and the competitive balance for teams already stretched by a crowded early‑season program.
• Safety incidents would damage the sport’s global reputation and could trigger broader political fallout.

The details:

• The tension escalated after a U.S.–Israel strike on Iranian targets, prompting the FIA to issue a statement emphasizing “safety and wellbeing” as the guiding principle.
• FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirmed ongoing communication with member clubs, promoters, teams and on‑the‑ground staff.
• Immediate impacts: personnel traveling through Qatar or the UAE have been forced to reroute, and contingency plans for delayed freight are in place.
• Upcoming events under review:
  • WEC: pre‑season testing and the opening round in Qatar at the end of March.
  • MotoGP: return to Lusail on 12 April.
  • F1: Bahrain Grand Prix (tyre test cancelled last weekend) followed by Saudi Arabia in mid‑April.
• The Australian Grand Prix, opening the F1 season, remains unaffected for now.
• The FIA is coordinating with local authorities and championship organisers to ensure any decision reflects both logistical realities and humanitarian concerns.

What's next:

• The FIA will continue monitoring the security situation week by week, with final go‑/no‑go decisions expected as each event approaches.
• Teams are advised to maintain flexible travel and freight plans; the governing body will activate contingency measures if needed.
• Should hostilities intensify, the FIA may consider postponement, relocation or cancellation to protect competitors, staff and civilians.