F1 has announced the cancellation of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and the 2026 season will be reduced to 22 races.
The sport’s fourth race of the season was scheduled for April 10-12 in Bahrain, followed by a week later in the Saudi city of Jeddah on April 17-19, both countries being among the Gulf states attacked by Iran in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli airstrikes.
F1 officially announced the cancellation ahead of Sunday’s Chinese Grand Prix and confirmed that neither event would be a replacement on the 2026 schedule.
Several alternative venues were considered before the final decision was made not to reschedule the April dates.
The F2, F3 and F1 Academy rounds scheduled during the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia double header will also not take place as planned.
F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “This was a difficult decision, but unfortunately given the current situation in the Middle East, it was the right one at this stage.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FIA and our wonderful promoters for their support and full understanding, as they look forward to welcoming us with their usual energy and passion.
“I can’t wait to get back together with them as soon as conditions allow.”
FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem said: “The FIA always puts the safety and well-being of our communities and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.”
“We continue to wish for a speedy return to peace, security and stability in the region, and our thoughts remain with all those affected by recent events.
“Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are extremely important to our racing season ecosystem and we look forward to returning to both as soon as circumstances allow. We sincerely thank our promoters, partners and colleagues across the championship for the collaborative and constructive approach that led to this decision.”
With no races held in April, there will be a five-week gap in the schedule between the third round of the season, the Japanese Grand Prix, from March 27-29, and the Miami Grand Prix, May 1-3.
Sky Sports F1 China GP Schedule
Sunday March 15th
2:35am: F1 Academy Race 2*
5:30am: Preparation for Chinese Grand Prix: Grand Prix Sunday*
7am: Chinese Grand Prix*
9am: Chinese GP reaction: Checkered flag*
10am: Ted’s Notes*
*Also held at Sky Sports Main Event
F1 will host the first sprint weekend of the 2026 season in Shanghai with the Chinese Grand Prix, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. Stream Sky Sports now – cancel anytime with no contract
