Pirelli cancel Bahrain F1 tyre test following US strikes on Iran
Pirelli have cancelled a scheduled two-day Formula 1 tyre test in Bahrain due to security concerns following US military strikes on Iran and subsequent regional tension.
Security concerns halt running
The Italian manufacturer was due to conduct wet-weather compound testing with Mercedes and McLaren at the Sakhir circuit.
However, the session has been abandoned after reports of missile strikes targeting facilities near the Bahraini capital, Manama.
The city is situated approximately 30km from the Bahrain International Circuit, prompting immediate safety precautions for all travelling team personnel.
US President Donald Trump confirmed military operations had been initiated, with explosions reported across Iran.
In response, Iranian forces have reportedly launched retaliatory strikes against US assets in the Gulf region.
Personnel safety priority
Pirelli confirmed that all staff currently in the country are safe and confined to their hotels while travel arrangements are made.
A spokesperson for the tyre supplier said: "The two days of development tests for wet-weather compounds, scheduled for today and tomorrow at the Bahrain International Circuit, have been cancelled for security reasons following the evolving international situation."
They added: "The company is working to ensure their safety and arrange their return to Italy and the UK as soon as possible."
Impact on season preparations
Mercedes reserve driver Frederik Vesti had been scheduled to participate in the test session.
The Danish junior, who notably stepped in for Lewis Hamilton during a practice session at the 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, will no longer take to the track this week.
Reports suggest that F1 teams are now reviewing travel logistics for the upcoming season opener in Australia.
Many personnel typically transit through Gulf hubs such as Dubai and Doha to reach Melbourne, a route that may now be reconsidered.
The FIA and Formula 1 Management are monitoring the situation closely, with the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix currently scheduled for April.
Formula 1 Management stated: "Our next three races are in Australia, China and Japan."