F1 and FIA Officially Cancel 2026 Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix

Formula 1 and the FIA have officially removed the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix from the 2026 calendar, citing the tense security situation in the Middle East. The decision creates a rare five-week gap in the schedule, though the season will still meet its contracted minimum of 22 races.

Why it matters:

The cancellation of two lucrative and strategically important races underscores how geopolitical instability can directly impact the global sporting calendar. It forces teams to manage an unusually long break early in the season, affecting operational rhythm, logistics, and revenue streams for all stakeholders, while prioritizing safety above all else.

The details:

• The Bahrain GP (April 12) and Saudi Arabian GP (April 19) have been formally axed following extensive consultations between the FIA, Formula 1, local promoters, and motorsport authorities.
• Official Reasoning: FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated the decision was made with "the safety and wellbeing of our community and our colleagues as our primary concern." F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali called it a "difficult" but correct decision given the regional situation.
• Support Series Impact: The supporting Formula 2, Formula 3, and F1 Academy championships are also affected by the cancellations.
• No Replacement Races: The FIA confirmed that options for replacement events in April were carefully evaluated but ultimately dismissed, leading to the extended gap.
• Promoter Response: The circuits and promoters in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have stated they "respect and support" the decision.

What's next:

The 2026 season will now begin with a trio of flyaway races in Australia, China, and Japan in March, before a five-week break leads into the Miami Grand Prix on May 3rd. The revised calendar maintains 22 rounds, fulfilling broadcasting agreements, but leaves teams navigating an unprecedented early-season pause. All focus now shifts to the updated schedule and the logistical planning required for this altered championship flow.

Updated 2026 F1 Calendar:

1. Mar – Melbourne, Australia
2. Mar – Shanghai, China
3. Mar – Suzuka, Japan
4. May – Miami, USA
5. May – Montreal, Canada
6. Jun – Monte Carlo, Monaco
7. Jun – Barcelona, Spain
8. Jun – Spielberg, Austria
9. Jul – Silverstone, Great Britain
10. Jul – Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium
11. Jul – Budapest, Hungary
12. Aug – Zandvoort, Netherlands
13. Sep – Monza, Italy
14. Sep – Madrid, Spain
15. Sep – Baku, Azerbaijan
16. Oct – Singapore
17. Oct – Austin, USA
18. Nov – Mexico City, Mexico
19. Nov – São Paulo, Brazil
20. Nov – Las Vegas, USA
21. Nov – Doha, Qatar
22. Dec – Abu Dhabi, UAE