Formula 1 Scraps Bahrain & Saudi Races Amid Middle East Security Fears

Formula 1 has officially cancelled the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix amid escalating security concerns in the Middle East. According to Ireporter Online, the sport’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), confirmed that extensive security assessments concluded the races could not proceed safely while regional tensions persist.

The Bahrain Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit was scheduled for April 10–12, with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit set to take place a week later. In a statement released ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix on Saturday, the FIA confirmed that neither event would be rescheduled or replaced on the 2026 calendar.

“As always, the FIA will place the safety and well-being of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind,” said FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

The cancellations reduce the 2026 championship from 24 races to 22, leaving a five-week gap between the Japanese Grand Prix in late March and the Miami Grand Prix in early May. Formula 1 had explored alternative venues, including Portugal’s Algarve Circuit, Italy’s Imola Circuit, and Turkey’s Istanbul Park, but organisers determined that logistical challenges, ticketing issues, and stretched personnel made replacement races unfeasible.

The financial impact is projected to exceed £100 million, as Bahrain and Saudi Arabia rank among the highest-paying hosts on the Formula 1 calendar, with fees shared between teams and the Formula One Group. Despite the significant economic loss, officials emphasized that the decision prioritized safety above all else.