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F1 is expected to cancel the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian GPs amid escalating Gulf tensions, potentially reducing the 2026 calendar to 22 races and leaving April without a race.
A snapshot from the 2025 Saudi Arabian GP (AFP)
Formula 1 could be facing a major reshuffle to its 2026 calendar, with the Bahrain Grand Prix and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix reportedly set to be cancelled amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region.
According to reports from Sky Sports and Crash.netsources in the Shanghai paddock expect official confirmation on the fate of both races as early as this weekend.
The two events have been under serious doubt since hostilities erupted in the region on 28 February, following joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran.
Since then, both FIA and Formula One Group have been closely monitoring the situation in coordination with local race promoters and authorities in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Logistics And Security Concerns
Beyond safety concerns, the situation has also created significant logistical challenges for teams and organisers.
Missile strikes have reportedly targeted several locations across the Gulf, including Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, while widespread flight disruptions — particularly at Dubai International Airport — have complicated the movement of teams, equipment and freight.
The Bahrain International Circuit is currently scheduled to host the Bahrain GP from April 10–12, with the Saudi Arabian round set to follow the next weekend at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
However, the tight logistics of F1’s global schedule mean a decision must be made soon to allow time for transporting cars, garages and broadcasting equipment.
Calendar Impact
If both races are cancelled, the 2026 F1 season would shrink from 24 races to 22, with no replacement events planned.
That would create a four-week gap between the Japanese GP and the Miami GP, leaving April unusually quiet on the F1 calendar.
While organisers in Jeddah had reportedly pushed hard to keep their race on the schedule, the escalating security risks appear to have left F1 with few viable options.
March 13, 2026, 11:16 PM IST
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