The Bahrain and Saudi Arabia stages of the Formula 1 Grand Prix, originally scheduled for April, have been officially cancelled due to ongoing developments in the Middle East, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to official statements from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). In a press release, the FIA noted that several alternative options were considered, but ultimately it was decided that no replacement races would be held in April. Alongside Formula 1, the rounds for Formula 2, Formula 3, and the F1 Academy have also been cancelled.
The decision to cancel these races was made in coordination with the FIA and the relevant event promoters. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the importance of both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to the Formula 1 ecosystem and expressed hope that the championship will return to these venues as soon as circumstances allow. “Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are extremely important for the ecosystem of our racing season, and I look forward to returning to both countries as soon as it becomes possible,” he stated.
Following these cancellations, the 2026 season will feature 22 races instead of the originally planned 24. The next Grand Prix will take place in Japan from March 27 to 29, with the subsequent race scheduled for Miami on May 3. Teams and fans are adjusting to the updated calendar while preparations for the Japanese Grand Prix continue.
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