F1 cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to Iran war
Two upcoming F1 rounds in the Middle East will not go ahead.
The upcoming Formula One Grands Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 ACADEMY rounds will also not take place.
Both countries have been struck during Iran's response after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran.
The announcement was made on Sunday morning, ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix.
“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,” said Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1
"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.”
The FIA said that while several alternative options were considered, “it was ultimately decided that no substitutions will be made in April.”
While the statement rules out immediate replacement events, such as those pitched by some European circuits, it is vague enough to allow speculation if other replacement events will occur later in the year.
“The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first,” said Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA.
“After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind. We continue to hope for calm, safety and a swift return to stability in the region, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by these recent events.
“Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are incredibly important to the ecosystem of our racing season, and I look forward to returning to both as soon as circumstances allow. My sincere thanks to the promoters, our partners, and our colleagues across the championship for the collaborative and constructive approach that has led to this decision.”
Both races will offer full refunds to ticket holders.
