Mar.11 (GMM) Formula 1 is increasingly braced for the likely cancellation of its April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia amid the escalating conflict involving Iran and several Gulf states.
The Bahrain GP at Sakhir is scheduled for April 12, followed by Saudi Arabia in Jeddah a week later, but growing indications within the paddock suggest neither event will take place.
The situation was inadvertently captured when Isack Hadjar and Kimi Antonelli were overheard discussing the issue while flying from Melbourne to Shanghai after the Australian GP. According to a passenger who recounted the exchange on social media, Hadjar joked to the Mercedes driver: “Now you have two less races to win.”
Sources say the current baseline scenario under discussion within the sport is that both races will be called off if the regional security situation does not improve.
Iran has launched extensive missile and drone attacks against targets across the region, with both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia sustaining significant strikes – including a hit on the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet base in Manama and an Aramco refinery in Saudi Arabia, a blow that struck at the heart of Formula 1’s own commercial world given that Aramco is a major sponsor of both the sport and Aston Martin.
Logistics are a key factor. All freight for the April double-header is scheduled to travel to Bahrain first before moving on to Jeddah, meaning the fate of the two events is effectively linked – if Bahrain cannot be staged, Saudi Arabia would almost certainly fall too. Disruption to airspace and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz has added further complications.
Organisers in Saudi Arabia are understood to be pushing for the Jeddah race to go ahead, but officials acknowledge the final call will depend on safety and travel conditions. A Pirelli tyre test in Bahrain was recently cancelled amid the security concerns, underlining the difficulties of operating in the region.
Formula 2 and Formula 3 are reportedly exploring alternative venues for their Bahrain and Jeddah rounds. Formula 1, however, is reportedly not planning replacement races.
If both events are cancelled, the championship calendar would shrink to 22 races with a five-week gap between Suzuka and Miami.
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES