F1 works on contingency plans for Middle East races as revenue surges

Formula 1 is developing contingency plans for its Middle East races following cancellations caused by conflict in the region. Liberty Media reported strong first-quarter financial results despite the disruptions.

Liberty Media announced that Formula 1 revenue rose 53 percent to $617 million in the first quarter of 2026. Operating income reached $107 million with core operating profit at $172 million. The company held three grands prix in the period, including Japan, compared to two the previous year, and added new sponsorships such as Standard Chartered.

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F1 executives in crisis meeting over Middle East conflict threatening Bahrain and Saudi Grands Prix, prioritizing safety amid red-highlighted risk map.
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F1 rules out replacements for Bahrain and Saudi GPs amid conflict escalation

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As Middle East tensions intensify following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, Formula 1 is unlikely to find last-minute substitutes for the threatened Bahrain (April 12) and Saudi Arabian (April 19) Grands Prix, prioritizing safety over maintaining a full 24-race calendar despite teams' revenue concerns. This follows earlier disruptions including a cancelled Pirelli test and travel chaos.

Formula 1 has officially cancelled its Bahrain and Saudi Arabia grands prix from the 2026 calendar as the Iran conflict continues. Liberty Media's stock fell about 7% after the news. The move affects hosting fees but leaves core revenue streams intact.

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As Formula 1 teams complete arrivals in Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix despite ongoing Middle East conflict disruptions—initially addressed by chartered flights—the FIA has relaxed curfew rules, a Bahrain tyre test was cancelled, and officials monitor upcoming races. Drivers express confidence in decision-making.

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has emphasized the need for prospective hosts to demonstrate long-term financial sustainability before securing a place on the series' fixed 24-race calendar. Amid surging global interest, F1 prioritizes multi-year deals that ensure infrastructure investments and stable revenue. Domenicali dismissed premature claims from places like India and South Africa while highlighting ongoing extensions in key markets.

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A day after initial reports of mounting concerns, the Bahrain Grand Prix appears set for cancellation amid Iran's attacks on Gulf targets, while Saudi Arabian organisers intensify efforts to secure the Jeddah event for the 2026 Formula 1 season.

The cancellation of Bahrain and Jeddah grands prix due to the Iran war has created a five-week gap between Suzuka and Miami rounds. Red Bull views the break as a mixed bag, offering upgrade time but hindering engine development. Aston Martin sees both positives and negatives amid its power unit issues.

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The 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship schedule has been published, outlining 24 rounds of high-stakes racing. Coming after Lando Norris's unpredictable 2025 title win, the season introduces new rules, car designs, and teams to the grid. The calendar spans from March to December, visiting circuits worldwide.

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