David Croft hints at surprise F1 calendar slot for Jeddah race. Formula 1 could add Jeddah race between Baku and Singapore, Croft suggests.

New updates for the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix? Croft raises speculation

The future of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix remains uncertain, with both events still shrouded in mystery as Formula 1 and race organisers work to finalise the 2026 calendar.

The main objective for stakeholders within the sport is to secure a place for both races on the calendar, with the strongest likelihood currently centred on the Jeddah round in Saudi Arabia.

F1 commentator David Croft has revealed on the Sky F1 podcast that he spoke with well-connected sources during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend, offering fresh insight into the ongoing discussions behind the scenes.

According to Croft, there already appears to be a potential window for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix to be inserted into the schedule at a specific point in the season.

“Last week in the paddock I met someone from Saudi Arabia who is closely linked to the Grand Prix,” Croft said. “There is a desire to hold the race in Jeddah this year, potentially between Baku and Singapore. There is a one-week gap, so we could turn it into a triple-header.”

His comments suggest that Formula 1 could be considering an unusual expansion of the calendar flow, using an existing gap between two established races to accommodate an additional event without significantly restructuring the season.

“Of course, they need to make a decision as soon as possible. Bahrain could also be an option depending on the situation in that part of the world,” he added.

“But don’t be surprised if, between Baku and Singapore, we make a stop in Jeddah,” Croft concluded.

At this stage, no official confirmation has been made regarding either the Bahrain or Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, and both remain under evaluation as Formula 1 continues to assess logistical, political and sporting factors ahead of final calendar approval.

What is clear, however, is that the Jeddah race remains the most likely candidate should an additional slot be created, with the possibility of forming a rare triple-header adding further intrigue to the second half of the season.

The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as Formula 1 works to finalise its global schedule, balancing commercial opportunities, regional stability and the increasingly complex demands of a 24-race championship.