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F1 Likely to Reduce Calendar as Bahrain, Saudi Races Face Cancellation

Posted : 06 March 2026

Formula One is likely to cut its 2026 calendar from 24 to 22 races as the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix face probable cancellation amid escalating conflict in the Middle East. The Sakhir circuit in Bahrain is scheduled to host a night race on 12 April, followed by the Jeddah race the next weekend, but rising regional tensions have made the events increasingly uncertain.

The situation has already affected other motorsport events, with MotoGP’s Qatar round on 12 April now difficult to hold and the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in Doha postponed. Cities including Manama, Riyadh, and Doha have been targeted by Iranian missiles and drones following recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran, causing the closure of major airports and damage to infrastructure, including a hotel in Bahrain.

Rescheduling the two F1 races later in the year presents major challenges. High summer temperatures in the region, limited calendar gaps, and logistical complexities make it difficult to shift the events, while promoters, ticket sales, and safety considerations further complicate any potential rescheduling. Although circuits such as Imola, Le Castellet, Portimao, Istanbul Park, and Japan’s Suzuka have been suggested as alternatives, moving the F1 circus on short notice is impractical.

Historically, the Bahrain Grand Prix was cancelled in 2011 amid unrest and was not replaced, even though hosting fees were paid. Formula One leadership, including CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, have stressed that safety will be the primary consideration in any decision. Teams and officials, including McLaren’s Zak Brown and Mercedes’ Toto Wolff, are closely monitoring developments, though uncertainty remains.

If both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are ultimately cancelled without replacement, the next Formula One race would not take place until Monaco in June, following a planned Formula Two test in Bahrain later this month that is also expected to be cancelled. A reduced 22-race season would still meet commercial obligations, though overall revenues may be affected.

 

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