Formula 1 Expected to Cancel 2026 Bahrain, Saudi Arabian GPs

The two April rounds are expected to be dropped due to their proximity to ongoing conflict in Iran.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:43pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Formula 1 is reportedly preparing to cancel the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix races scheduled for April 2026 due to their proximity to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Multiple outlets have reported that the series is expected to make an official announcement about the cancellations within the next few days.

Why it matters

The cancellation of these two races would be a major disruption to the 2026 Formula 1 calendar, which was originally intended to host a record 24 events. With limited options to reschedule replacement races on short notice, the series is facing a significant reduction in the number of races for the season.

The details

Both the Bahrain and Jeddah Corniche Circuit races in Saudi Arabia have been hit by retaliatory strikes from Iran in recent weeks, raising serious safety concerns. The World Endurance Championship has already canceled its season-opener in Qatar and rescheduled it for October due to the regional tensions. While Formula 1 has not yet made a final decision, reports indicate the cancellation of the two April races is now expected.

  • The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were originally scheduled for April 2026.
  • The World Endurance Championship's season-opener in Qatar was canceled last week and rescheduled for October.

The players

Formula 1

The highest class of international racing for open-wheel formula racing cars.

Bahrain

The host country for the Bahrain Grand Prix, a Formula 1 race that has been held annually since 2004.

Saudi Arabia

The host country for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, a Formula 1 race that was first held in 2021.

Iran

A country in the Middle East that has been engaged in an ongoing conflict, leading to concerns about the safety of hosting motorsports events in neighboring countries.

World Endurance Championship

An international sports car racing championship that was also forced to cancel and reschedule an event in Qatar due to the regional tensions.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Formula 1 is expected to officially announce the cancellation of the 2026 Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix races within the next few days.

The takeaway

The cancellation of these two high-profile Formula 1 races highlights the significant impact that regional conflicts can have on the global motorsports calendar. With limited options to quickly reschedule replacement events, the series is facing a major disruption to its 2026 season.