Saudi GP
F1 prepares European alternatives as Middle East escalation threatens Bahrain and Saudi GPs
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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.
Formula 1 is expected to announce within 48 hours whether to cancel its Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix scheduled for April, due to escalating conflict in the Middle East. The decision follows a 10-day deadline set after talks at the Australian Grand Prix, driven by logistical challenges from the ongoing US and Israeli war on Iran. Both races are likely to be axed, creating a six-week gap in the 2026 calendar.