Formula One is expected to cancel the upcoming Grands Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the ongoing conflict in the region. The races were originally planned for April as part of the 2026 season, with the Bahrain GP scheduled for April 10-12 and the Saudi Arabian race in Jeddah the following weekend.
The decision to cancel both races comes in light of the conflict involving Iran, the USA, and Israel. As a result, the season’s schedule will now be reduced from 24 races to 22, as reported by Sky Sports. Both F1 and the FIA have not yet provided official comments on the matter.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed concern for the situation, emphasizing the importance of safety and well-being in assessing future events in the region for both the FIA World Endurance Championship and the FIA Formula One World Championship. He highlighted the organization’s unity and purpose during these challenging times.
Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer acknowledged the circumstances in the Middle East, expressing sympathy for those affected while focusing on the team’s current priorities. With the cancellation of the two races, there will be no F1 action in April, leading to a five-week gap before the Miami GP in early May.
Meanwhile, at the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, British driver George Russell is set to start on pole for the Saturday Sprint. The Mercedes driver leads the early driver standings with 25 points, followed by teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli in second place. Reigning champion Lando Norris currently holds fifth place with ten points.
Sky has enhanced its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+, and Hayu, along with 135 channels and comprehensive coverage of Formula 1. Sky offers exclusive broadcasting of every practice, qualifier, and race throughout the season, as well as coverage of the Premier League, EFL, darts, and golf.