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Formula One has cancelled its Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to escalating violence in the Middle East, the sport’s governing body announced on Saturday.
In a statement, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) said, “It has been confirmed today that, after careful evaluations, due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East region, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April.
“While several alternatives were considered, it was ultimately decided that no substitutions would be made in April. The decision has been taken in full consultation with Formula One Group, local promoters and our member clubs in the region.” the statement said.
The Bahrain race had been scheduled for April 10-12, with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix set a week later.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the decision prioritises safety.
The Japanese Grand Prix remains scheduled for March 27-29, with the Miami Grand Prix now set for May 1-3.
Formula 2, Formula 3, and F1 Academy rounds planned for Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have also been cancelled. Additionally, the first round of the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in neighbouring Qatar, originally scheduled for March 26-28, has been postponed to October.
The Gulf region has been under intense Iranian missile and drone attacks since the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran.
Bahrain, located near Iran, has faced repeated attacks targeting buildings, its refinery, and a major US military base, while Saudi Arabia has been struck multiple times, including attacks on critical oil infrastructure.
