Following initial disruptions from the Middle East conflict—including a cancelled Pirelli tyre test in Bahrain and travel chaos for the Australian GP—Formula 1 is now focusing on contingency plans for the Bahrain Grand Prix (April 12) and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (April 19). Escalating tensions have led to the WEC postponing its Qatar opener, with venues like Imola, Portimão, and Paul Ricard under consideration amid safety concerns.
Airstrikes near Bahrain International Circuit in Manama prompted the Pirelli wet tyre test cancellation, heightening security fears. The FIA has rescheduled the World Endurance Championship's Qatar 1812km race (originally March 26-28 at Lusail) for later, promoting the Six Hours of Imola (April 17-19) as the season opener.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem reiterated that "safety and wellbeing will guide our decisions." While Bahrain and Saudi races remain scheduled, an F1 insider reports they are unlikely to occur. Alternatives mirror COVID-era shifts: Portugal's Portimão (hosted 2020-2021), Italy's Imola (recent fixture), and France's Paul Ricard, offering European logistics and suitable April weather to prevent a month-long gap after Australia, China, and Japan.
Travel issues persist, with personnel rerouted via Singapore and Tanzania to avoid Middle East hubs. A paddock source praised the sport's adaptability: "It is a great testament... how they are able to pull this off at such short notice."
This is the second threat to Bahrain's GP, after the 2011 Arab Spring cancellation.
