Formula 1 has cancelled the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix that were scheduled to take place in April due to the ongoing security situation in the Middle East.
The Bahrain Grand Prix had been scheduled for April 12 at the Bahrain International Circuit, while the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was to be held on April 19 at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
In a statement, Formula 1 confirmed that the races, along with the Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds planned for the same weekends, would not take place as scheduled and no alternative races would be added to the April calendar.
“The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April. Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East, the Grand Prix, alongside F2, F3, and F1 Academy rounds, will not take place as scheduled. While alternatives were considered, no substitutions will be made in April,” Formula 1 said in a statement.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said the decision was difficult but necessary given the circumstances.
“While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding, as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion. We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so,” he said.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the governing body had prioritised safety in reaching the decision.
“The FIA will always place the safety and well-being of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.
“We continue to hope for calm, safety and a swift return to stability in the region, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by these 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. My sincere thanks to the promoters, our partners, and our colleagues across the championship for the collaborative and constructive approach that has led to this decision,” he said.
Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain International Circuit, said the venue supported the decision.
“We fully support the decision by Formula 1, and we are grateful to them and to the FIA for their support and enduring partnership. We look forward to welcoming fans from all around the world back to Bahrain when F1 returns,” he said.
The decision comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia following escalating military operations involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
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