F1 keeps door open for Bahrain or Jeddah return in 2026 amid geopolitical uncertainty

Formula 1 is actively exploring the possibility of reinstating either the Bahrain or Saudi Arabian Grand Prix later in the 2026 season, after both races were called off from the planned April double-header due to the conflict involving Iran. While no decision is imminent, championship executives have confirmed contingency planning is well underway behind the scenes, with two potential windows being evaluated.

Why it matters:

Restoring a Middle Eastern round would help F1 preserve its commercial commitments to regional promoters and maintain a full 24-race calendar. The loss of both events has already created a gap, and with geopolitical tensions still unpredictable, even the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds late in the season remain uncertain. A rescheduled race would also provide a critical revenue boost and keep the championship’s global footprint intact.

The details:

• September window: The vacant weekend between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix (mid-September) is a leading candidate to host either Bahrain or Jeddah.
• December option: Moving the Abu Dhabi finale back one week could create space after Qatar, but that would force F1’s first-ever quadruple-header alongside Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi — a grueling logistical challenge for teams.
• Geopolitical risk: Should regional tensions persist, even the Qatar and Abu Dhabi events could face disruption. F1 is balancing flexibility with caution.
• Executive quotes: Liberty Media CEO Derek Chang noted during a Q1 earnings call: “We will be thoughtful… It might be possible to reschedule one race toward the end of the season.” F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali added, “We have plans, hopefully not to be applied… We really hope the situation will go back to normal.”

What's next:

F1’s approach remains one of preparedness rather than prediction. Officials are mapping multiple calendar pathways for the final phase of 2026, but the ultimate decision hinges on stability in the region. Teams, promoters, and stakeholders are being kept informed, with a formal announcement likely only once conditions clarify. For now, the championship waits — hopeful that one of its marquee Middle Eastern events can still be revived before the season ends.