Ongoing military strikes in West Asia force major racing cancellations.

Motorsport enthusiasts will face a shorter calendar this spring following a major announcement from the International Automobile Federation (FIA). Officials have confirmed that the upcoming races in both Manama and Jeddah are officially off the schedule for April. This decision comes as a direct response to the volatile security situation currently unfolding across West Asia, specifically involving drone and missile activity.

Regional instability has reached a point where hosting international sporting events is no longer feasible. Recent military actions involving several nations have seen projectiles impacting major Middle Eastern hubs. Specifically, the proximity of hotel accommodations for team personnel in Manama to these strike zones created an unacceptable risk. Furthermore, the closure of key regional airports and threats to maritime trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz have made the logistics of moving F1 equipment nearly impossible.

Events in the Gulf have faced similar hurdles in the past. Bahrain previously lost its slot on the calendar back in 2011 during a period of intense internal civil unrest. Similarly, the street circuit in Jeddah dealt with nearby security threats from missile strikes on industrial facilities just a few years ago. While Saudi Arabian sports officials emphasized that their facilities were physically ready for the 2026 event, they ultimately agreed that the safety of the global racing community must come first.

Cancellations extend far beyond the main Formula 1 grid. The FIA confirmed that rounds for Formula 2, Formula 3, and the F1 Academy are also suspended. No replacement venues will be added to the April calendar, leaving a significant gap in the championship race. This move was finalized after extensive talks between the Formula One Group, local race promoters, and regional member clubs to ensure a unified front on athlete safety.

With Inputs from: International Automobile Federation (FIA)