Formula 1 has confirmed that the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt the sport’s 2026 calendar.

The decision, taken in full consultation with the FIA and the respective race promoters, also affects the Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds scheduled to run alongside both events. No replacement races will be added to the calendar in April.

Formula 1 CEO responds to cancellation

In a statement released on 14th March, Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said the decision, while difficult, was the right one given the circumstances. “I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion,” he said. “We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow.”

FIA places safety first

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem framed the decision around the safety of those involved in the championship. “The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first,” he said. “Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are incredibly important to the ecosystem of our racing season, and I look forward to returning to both as soon as circumstances allow.”

Promoters back the decision

Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain International Circuit, said the circuit fully supported the decision and looked forward to welcoming fans back when F1 returns. Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, said Saudi fans had been looking forward to the Jeddah race but that the federation understood the considerations behind the decision and remained in close partnership with Formula 1.

What happens next

The cancellations leave a gap in the early part of the 2026 season. No timeline has been given for when either race might be rescheduled.

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Photo of the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix, Source: Ferrari Media Centre