F1 2026 calendar alert: Bahrain and Saudi Arabia face cancellation with no replacements. The escalation of conflict in the Middle East puts the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix at risk.

War and Formula 1

The escalation of conflict in the Middle East has directly impacted two countries scheduled to host Formula 1 races in April: Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Both events – originally set for April 12 and April 19, respectively – are now at high risk, although F1 leadership is proceeding cautiously in public statements.

A 22-race season?

Sky Sports UK reported that a decision on the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix will be made “no later than March 20.” Importantly, the two events will not be replaced, meaning the 2026 calendar would shrink from 24 to 22 races. Alternatives like Portimão and Imola were considered, but the time required to organize such events was too short to integrate them into the 2026 schedule.

If these two Grands Prix are canceled, a five-week gap would appear between the third race in Japan (March 29) and the following round in Miami (May 3). Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1 CEO, commented: “Our approach is focused on the safety of all parties involved. We don’t want to make statements today because the situation is evolving, and we have time to make the right decision, which will be taken together. This has already not been an easy week: we had people in Dubai and Bahrain for the Pirelli test and in Doha. We had booked many flights across the Middle East and had to reschedule everything.”

The potential loss of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian rounds signals a major shift for the 2026 season, potentially leaving fans with a significant spring break while the sport prioritizes safety over a 24-race marathon. As Stefano Domenicali coordinates the complex task of rerouting personnel and equipment, the upcoming March 20 deadline will finally provide the clarity needed to understand how this shortened championship will unfold.