Pierre Gasly backs F1 to make right call on doubtful Middle East races
Alpine driver Pierre Gasly has expressed his trust in Formula 1 to make the “right decision” regarding the upcoming Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix amid escalating conflict in the region.
The status of the double-header in the Gulf is currently under review following recent geopolitical escalations.
Military strikes involving Iran, the US, and Israel have cast doubt on the viability of the events scheduled for April.
While the season-opening Australian Grand Prix remains unaffected, championship chiefs are closely monitoring the security situation for rounds four and five.
‘So much at stake’
Gasly, preparing for the season opener in Melbourne, insists safety must be the priority.
The Frenchman revealed the situation is personal, citing close connections in the affected region.
“I trust the people in charge. There is so much at stake,” Gasly said.
“I have some family living in the Middle East, and people close to me. It is difficult to get my head around everything that is going on when you know what is happening at the moment.”
“Hopefully things will get better, but, ultimately, F1 will make the right decision and what is best for all of us.”
Calendar disruption looms
The logistical challenge has already impacted other motorsport series.
The World Endurance Championship (WEC) confirmed on Tuesday that its season-opener in Qatar has been postponed.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated the governing body continues to “monitor developments” across the region.
Should the F1 races be cancelled, finding space in the 2026 calendar poses significant difficulties for the sport’s organisers.
Any rescheduling could result in a gruelling triple-header of race weekends later in the year.
If the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia rounds cannot proceed, European circuits such as Portimao in Portugal and Imola in Italy are considered potential replacement venues.
