The Formula 1 calendar has been trimmed to 22 races after officials announced the cancellation of both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, scheduled for April. The decision comes amid ongoing geopolitical concerns in the Middle East, Formula 1 confirmed.
The Bahrain Grand Prix was originally slated for April 12, followed by the Saudi Arabian race the following weekend in Jeddah. Both events, along with associated Formula 2, Formula 3, and F1 Academy rounds, will not be rescheduled for April, though officials have expressed a desire to return to the region as soon as conditions allow.
“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.”
The cancellations stem from the escalating conflict in the region, specifically referencing the US-Israeli war on Iran and retaliatory strikes targeting several Gulf nations, including Bahrain, Motorsport.com reported.
Despite exploring potential replacement venues like Imola and Portimao, logistical and commercial challenges ultimately led to the decision not to fill the vacated slots on the schedule. This leaves a five-week gap between the Japanese Grand Prix in late March and the Miami Grand Prix in early May.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the priority of safety, stating, “The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.” He added that Bahrain and Saudi Arabia remain important to the F1 ecosystem and expressed hope for a swift return to stability in the region.
Saudi Arabian Sports Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, confirmed the decision, stating that the cancellation was made by the organizing body, according to صحيفة سبق الإلكترونية. He also affirmed Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to hosting major global sporting events.
JPMorgan Chase reaffirmed its ‘Buy’ rating for Liberty Formula One shares following the race cancellations, Investing.com reported.
