Mar.2 (GMM) Formula 1 is scrambling to protect the start of its 2026 season after fresh military escalation in the Middle East disrupted air travel just days before the Australian GP.
On February 28, the United States and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory missile attacks targeting US and allied facilities in Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain.
Several major airport hubs – including Doha and Dubai – temporarily closed their airspace, forcing teams and officials to urgently reroute travel plans to Melbourne.
Around 2000 F1 personnel are currently in transit, many having remained in Bahrain following pre-season testing. Alternative routes via Singapore and Hong Kong are reportedly in heavy demand, while some have opted to fly directly to Perth before connecting across Australia.
An FIA spokesperson confirmed the governing body is monitoring developments closely.
“Our next three races are in Australia, China and Japan, and therefore not in the affected region,” the statement said. “The affected World Championship races are not scheduled for several weeks. As always, we are monitoring such situations closely and working with the relevant authorities.”
Bahrain (April 12) and Saudi Arabia (April 19) could be in trouble if instability persists. The season also concludes with races in Qatar (November 29) and Abu Dhabi (December 6).
A planned two-day Pirelli wet-tyre test in Bahrain was cancelled at short notice.
“The two days of development tests for wet-weather compounds, scheduled for today and tomorrow at the Bahrain International Circuit, have been cancelled for security reasons following the evolving international situation,” Pirelli said.
“All Pirelli personnel currently in Manama are safe in their hotels. The company is working to ensure their return to Italy and the UK as soon as possible.”
One of the Iranian missiles reportedly landed roughly 20 kilometres from the Sakhir circuit.
Drivers including Nyck de Vries and Frederik Vesti – due to participate in the cancelled tyre test – were unable to leave Bahrain immediately due to airspace closures.
Ferrari organised a charter flight with a refuelling stop in Singapore to ensure its personnel reached Melbourne on time. Other teams have adopted similar contingency measures.
Formula 2 has been particularly exposed. With more fragile logistics than F1, several teams report cargo stranded at Gulf airports, raising fears equipment may not arrive in Australia before practice begins on March 6.
Russian commentator Alexey Popov warned of wider implications.
“I hope things will calm down in the Middle East,” he said. “But right now it looks like there won’t be any racing there at all.”
In Abu Dhabi, residents reported air defence systems operating near Yas Marina Circuit after missile interceptions.
The crisis casts fresh light on Formula 1’s expanding footprint in the region. Days ago, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali defended the championship’s four Middle Eastern races.
“The growth of our business in those countries is unparalleled,” he told Corriere della Sera. “The benefits are mutual.”
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
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES