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Live sport on SN this weekendF1 confirms axing of two races amid Middle East conflict
Nicholas Quinlan • March 15th, 2026 2:04 pm
Formula One has confirmed that the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prixs will not take place this year amid conflict within the Middle East.
The two races were scheduled to take place in April, following the Japanese Grand Prix.
But following the launch of air strikes between Israel and Iran began in late February, the region has become more volatile, generating safety concerns for the events.
With these safety concerns, Formula One CEO and President Stefano Domenicali believed they had no choice but to make these alterations.
“While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage, considering the current situation in the Middle East.
"I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding, as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion. We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so.”
With the races not going ahead, the F1 calendar will have 22 races instead of 24.
F1 also faces the possibility of having to make further changes should the war continue with the last two races of the season (Qatar and Abu Dhabi) scheduled to take place in late November and early December.
