F1 comments on Middle East missile attacks affecting Bahrain and Saudi Arabia
Formula 1 has issued statements to address the recent developments in the Middle East and explain the potential impact on the upcoming Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix.
After being struck by missiles launched by the United States and Israel, Iran retaliated by targeting multiple U.S. bases in the Middle East, including those located in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia—countries scheduled to host two F1 races in the coming weeks.
F1 has now commented on the situation following these missile attacks. The Formula One Management (FOM) has confirmed it is carefully monitoring developments and assessing any potential consequences for the 2026 season, which is about to begin. These statements were released just hours after the escalation of what could become yet another regional conflict.
“Our next three races will take place in Australia, China, and Japan, not in the Middle East. Those events are still several weeks away. As always, we closely monitor any situation of this kind and work in full cooperation with the relevant authorities,” FOM spokespersons told PlanetF1.
Pirelli cancels scheduled Sakhir tests
Meanwhile, Pirelli has decided to cancel the wet-weather tests that were scheduled for these days at the Sakhir circuit. The tire supplier had planned to run sessions alongside Mercedes and McLaren to evaluate their wet tires. However, given the severity of the situation in the region, the sessions have been canceled to avoid any potential risks.
This statement from Formula 1 highlights a strategy of cautious monitoring as the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches. By emphasizing that the upcoming races are geographically removed from the immediate conflict zone, FOM aims to maintain the current schedule while acknowledging the necessity of working with security experts to ensure the safety of all participants in the Middle East.
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