The Bahrain Grand Prix was originally scheduled for 10-12/4 at the Sakhir circuit, followed by the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah from 17-19/4. However, escalating conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran since 28/2 poses significant risks for teams traveling to the region. Bahrain's capital, Manama, has experienced missile attacks, and Jeddah is also deemed too hazardous for hosting a major sports event.

Cars at the Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain on 13/4/2025. Photo: Reuters

The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and F1 organizers have been closely monitoring the situation, collaborating with circuit officials in Sakhir and Jeddah. While the safety of all personnel remains the top priority, any cancellation involves complex commercial considerations that must be addressed.

With no improvement in the regional situation and continued disruptions to air travel, an early decision is necessary. This will allow teams and other stakeholders to manage logistical challenges related to cargo transport and staff travel, particularly given the anticipated cancellation of thousands of flights and hotel bookings.

The urgent logistics of transporting cars, parts, and equipment for the teams, which must begin next week, necessitate a decision from F1 within the next 48 hours. While an official cancellation has not yet been made, an announcement is expected this sunday 15/3. Both races will not be replaced, shortening the 2026 F1 season to 22 events.

The F1 championship faces a commercial loss exceeding 100 million USD. This is because Sakhir and Jeddah are among the circuits that pay the highest hosting fees on the calendar. This revenue shortfall will be distributed among the teams and the F1 commercial rights holder, with each party incurring several million USD in losses, depending on the prize money allocation.

Alternative race venues were considered, including Portimao in Portugal, Imola in San Marino, Istanbul Park in Turkey, or even an additional race in Japan immediately following the Suzuka event in late march. However, after evaluating financial and logistical aspects, none of these options were deemed suitable replacements.

This decision will result in a five-week break between the Japanese Grand Prix on 29/3 and the Miami Grand Prix on 3/5. Following the Miami race, F1 cars will have another three-week hiatus before the Canadian Grand Prix on 24/5.

In addition to the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix races originally scheduled for april, the Middle East also hosts two other F1 events: the Qatar Grand Prix and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, held in late november and early december.

Minh Phuong