Tensions in the Middle East are escalating, and now more than ever, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix are at risk of being canceled for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The sport’s governing bodies may have to consider reducing the number of races on the calendar if the situation does not improve.
The first warning sign came last week when Pirelli canceled the special tire tests in Bahrain due to the joint U.S. and Israeli attack in Iran. This was followed by the closure of airspace in Doha and Dubai, after missile strikes targeted U.S. embassies in the region.
Logistical problems have already affected Formula 1: thousands of team members and staff were stranded in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, while others had to find alternative routes to reach Australia without passing through the Middle East.
The situation remains highly dramatic and is unlikely to find a short-term solution. The Bahrain Grand Prix is scheduled for April 10–12, followed by the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix the week after. Missile strikes have not only targeted U.S. military bases but have also hit hotels, civilian infrastructure, and energy facilities in both regions.
The U.S. naval base in the Bahraini capital, Manama, has already been struck by Iranian missiles. This area, located in Juffair, also hosts F1 personnel during the race weekend. Four years ago, Jeddah in Saudi Arabia was targeted by Houthi rebels, who launched missiles just a few kilometers from the circuit, near the oil refinery.
Bahrain and Saudi Arabia: replacement or cancellation?
The FIA has issued a statement saying that it continues to monitor the situation closely. However, even if a ceasefire is reached within a month, managing two Grands Prix in the region remains highly complicated due to the risk of potential delays or incidents in the conflict zones.
Canceling the two races would also result in a massive financial loss: the fees paid by the two Arab countries amount to over $100 million, which would not be reimbursed in the event of cancellation.
Could replacing the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races be the solution? The Formula 1 calendar is subject to highly delicate logistical arrangements, making it almost impossible to reschedule on short notice. Among the proposals are hosting replacement races at Portimão in Portugal, Imola in Italy, or Istanbul in Turkey. However, this remains unrealistic, as organizing a Grand Prix and selling tickets in such a short timeframe is nearly impossible.
Another possibility considered is holding a second race in Japan after the Suzuka Grand Prix, scheduled for March 27–29. Yet, this solution also appears unfeasible: the benefits would be limited compared to the logistical and personnel challenges for the teams and F1 staff.
It is far more likely that the 2026 calendar will be reduced from 24 to 22 races. For now, all that can be done is to continue monitoring the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, hoping the conflict does not escalate further.
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