F1 events in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia scrapped amid Iran conflict

French driver Pierre Gasly, representing Alpine, was behind the wheel during the qualifying session for the Formula One Chinese Grand Prix, held at the Shanghai International Circuit in Shanghai on March 14, 2026.

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A photo of Gasly, taken by GREG BAKER, was initially mislabeled as featuring Argentine driver Franco Colapinto, prompting a correction notice to remove the erroneous mention from all online services and servers.

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Due to the escalating Middle East war, the FIA has announced the cancellation of Formula One races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, citing the ongoing situation in the region as the reason for the decision.

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The International Automobile Federation stated that after careful evaluations, it was confirmed that the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix would not take place in April, with no substitutions planned for that month.

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The decision was made in consultation with the Formula One Group, local promoters, and member clubs in the region, according to the FIA statement.

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Bahrain was originally scheduled to host the fourth Grand Prix of the season from April 10-12, followed by the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix a week later.

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The Gulf region has been under attack for two weeks, with Iranian drone and missile strikes targeting various locations, including buildings, a refinery, and a large US military base in Bahrain.

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Saudi Arabia has also been hit by numerous strikes, some of which have targeted the country's crucial oil infrastructure, as the world's largest exporter of crude.

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FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of the community and colleagues is the top priority, leading to the decision to cancel the races after careful consideration.

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Ben Sulayem expressed hope for a swift return to stability in the region and offered his thoughts to those affected by the recent events, also acknowledging the importance of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to the racing season.

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Kimi Antonelli, the 19-year-old Mercedes driver, secured pole position for the Chinese Grand Prix ahead of George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, and was asked about the potential cancellation of the Middle East races.

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Antonelli expressed his sympathy for those suffering from the situation and stated that Formula One and the FIA would handle the situation to ensure everyone's safety, echoing the sentiments of his fellow drivers Lewis and George.

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The Japanese Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from March 27-29, followed by the Miami Grand Prix on May 1-3, as the next Formula One races.

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Additionally, Formula 2, Formula 3, and F1 Academy rounds will not take place in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia as originally planned.

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Neighbouring Qatar has also been targeted, resulting in the postponement of the first round of the World Endurance Championship, initially scheduled for March 26-28, to October.