Formula 1 Cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix Amid Middle East Tensions

Upcoming Races Canceled

Manama [Bahrain], March 15: Formula 1 has officially announced the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, which were initially set for April. This decision comes in light of the escalating situation in the Middle East.

In a statement shared on X, Formula 1 confirmed, "The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not occur in April. Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East, the Grand Prix, along with F2, F3, and F1 Academy events, will not proceed as planned. Although alternative options were explored, no replacements will be made for April."

The Bahrain GP was slated for April 12 at the Bahrain International Circuit, while the Saudi Arabian GP was scheduled for April 19 at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

Stefano Domenicali, the President and CEO of Formula 1, remarked, "This was a tough decision, but it is the right one given the current circumstances in the Middle East."

He expressed gratitude towards the FIA and the promoters for their understanding and support, stating, "We eagerly anticipate returning as soon as conditions permit."

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the importance of safety, saying, "The FIA prioritizes the well-being of our community. After thorough consideration, we made this decision with that responsibility in mind. We hope for peace and a swift return to stability in the region, and my thoughts are with those affected by recent events."

Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain International Circuit, expressed support for Formula 1's decision, stating, "We appreciate the support from Formula 1 and the FIA. We look forward to welcoming fans back to Bahrain when F1 returns. Thank you to everyone in the F1 community for their messages of support."

These developments come amid rising tensions in West Asia, with military operations involving Iran, the United States, and Israel escalating following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint military strikes on February 28.

The strikes resulted in the deaths of several senior leaders of the Islamic Republic. In response, Tehran has targeted American military bases in various Arab nations and Israeli assets in the region. Meanwhile, Israel and the US have continued their strikes on Tehran, expanding the conflict to Lebanon by targeting Hezbollah and Iranian-backed militant groups.