Formula One is expected to cancel the upcoming Grands Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the ongoing conflict in the region. The races were part of the 2026 schedule, with Bahrain’s race set for April 10-12 and Saudi Arabia’s in Jeddah the following weekend.
The decision to cancel both races comes as a result of the conflict involving Iran, the USA, and Israel, as reported by Sky Sports. This will reduce the season’s race calendar from 24 to 22 events. Both Formula One (F1) and the FIA have not officially commented on the matter yet.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem addressed the situation on social media, emphasizing the importance of safety and well-being in making decisions for upcoming events. He expressed solidarity with those affected by the conflict and called for a swift return to stability.
Racing Bulls’ CEO, Peter Bayer, acknowledged the situation in the Middle East and expressed trust in FIA’s decision-making process. With the cancellation of the races, there will be no F1 action in April, leading teams to face a five-week gap before the Miami GP in early May.
Currently, F1 is in Shanghai for the Chinese Grand Prix, with George Russell expected to start on pole for Saturday’s Sprint. The Mercedes driver leads the early driver standings with teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli in second place. Reigning champion Lando Norris is in fifth position.
In other news, Sky has enhanced its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+, and Hayu, along with 135 channels and comprehensive coverage of Formula 1. Sky offers live broadcasts of practice sessions, qualifiers, and races throughout the F1 season, as well as exclusive coverage of other sports events.