Middle East conflict: Finalissima, Bahrain and Saudi Arabian F1 Grands Prix cancelled

Formula One Group has confirmed the cancellation of the Bahrain Grand Prix (scheduled for the weekend of 10-12/04/2026) and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (17-19/04) "due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East region," announced the organising body of the FIA Formula One World Championship on 14/03/2026.

A conflict is raging in the Middle East following airstrikes launched by the US and Israel on Iranian territory on 28/02/2026, which resulted in the deaths of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and at least 1,300 civilians. These attacks were followed by an Iranian military response targeting several Middle Eastern countries (Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Jordan).

"While several alternatives were considered, it was ultimately decided that no substitutions will be made in April," added F1. As a result, the 2026 Formula 1 calendar now comprises just 22 races, with a break of more than a month between the Japanese Grand Prix (scheduled for 29/03) and the Miami Grand Prix (03/05).

Formula 1 is not the only sport affected by the geopolitical…