Formula One cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to regional conflict, prioritising safety with no April replacements.
FORMULA ONE races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Motorsport’s governing body, the FIA, announced the decision on Saturday.
“It has been confirmed today that, after careful evaluations, due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East region, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April,” the International Automobile Federation said. The decision was made in full consultation with Formula One Group, local promoters and regional member clubs.
While several alternatives were considered, no substitutions will be made for the April calendar slots. The Bahrain Grand Prix was scheduled for April 10-12 as the season’s fourth race, with the Saudi event set for the following week.
The Gulf region has faced two weeks of Iranian drone and missile attacks. This followed the initiation of a war on Iran by the United States and Israel.
Bahrain, located a short distance across the Gulf from Iran, has been frequently targeted. Attacks have struck buildings, a refinery, and its large US military base.
Saudi Arabia has also weathered numerous strikes. Some have targeted the crucial oil infrastructure of the world’s biggest crude exporter.
“The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first,” FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said. He stated the decision was taken with that responsibility firmly in mind after careful consideration.
Ben Sulayem expressed hope for calm and a swift return to stability in the region. He added that his thoughts remain with all those affected by recent events.
“Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are incredibly important to the ecosystem of our racing season, and I look forward to returning to both as soon as circumstances allow,” he said. The president thanked promoters and partners for their collaborative approach.
In Shanghai, Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was asked about the possible cancellations. “My thoughts, and I think it’s the same for Lewis and George, are with the ones that are suffering from this situation,” the 19-year-old said.
Antonelli added that Formula One and the FIA would handle the situation to guarantee everyone’s safety. He had taken pole position for Sunday’s Chinese Grand Prix ahead of George Russell and Lewis Hamilton.
The Japanese Grand Prix will proceed on March 27-29. The next scheduled Formula One race is now the Miami Grand Prix on May 1-3.
Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds will also not take place during their scheduled slots in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Neighbouring Qatar has also been targeted by the conflict.
The first round of the World Endurance Championship (WEC), scheduled for March 26-28 in Qatar, has been postponed until October.
The Sun Malaysia
