Formula 1 rules out replacing Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races if cancelled
Formula 1 has no plans to replace the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix if the races are cancelled because of the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
The events, scheduled for mid-April, remain in serious doubt following military action in the region.
A final decision on whether the rounds will proceed is expected to be made by 20 March at the latest.
BBC Sport understands that should the races not take place, the 2026 calendar will be reduced from 24 rounds to 22.
While venues such as Portimao in Portugal and Imola in Italy were mooted as potential alternatives, there is insufficient time to organise the logistics.
Cancellation would result in a significant five-week break between the Japanese Grand Prix in late March and the Miami round in May.
Domenicali prioritises safety
Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali emphasised that the safety of all personnel remains the primary concern for the sport’s governing body.
“First of all, our approach is safety for all of the relevant stakeholders, people and the promoter itself,” Domenicali said.
“We don’t want to make any statement today because things are evolving and we still have time to make the right decision.”
The Italian administrator insisted the championship would remain “quiet and calm” while monitoring the geopolitical situation.
“This decision will be taken together,” he added.
Travel disruption affects season opener
The paddock is currently in Melbourne for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, though preparations have been hampered by logistical challenges.
Several team personnel faced difficulties reaching Australia due to flight cancellations and re-routing issues through the Gulf region.
Pirelli was forced to abandon a scheduled tyre test in Bahrain last week which was set to involve McLaren and Mercedes.
“It has not been an easy week,” Domenicali admitted regarding the travel chaos.
“We had a lot of flights booked through the Middle East, so it has been a very intense couple of days to reschedule everything with the help of the governments.”
Curfew restrictions in the Melbourne paddock have been relaxed to assist teams struggling with late freight arrivals caused by the disruption.
