F1 cancels races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia because of the conflict in Iran.
On Saturday, Formula 1 announced the cancellation of the races scheduled for April in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the ongoing conflict in Iran.
The Bahrain Grand Prix was planned for April 12, while the race in Saudi Arabia was set for April 19; however, both events have been removed from the calendar, resulting in a 22-event season.
An F1 statement indicated: “It has been confirmed today that, following thorough evaluations, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not occur in April due to the current situation in the Middle East region.”
“Although various alternatives were explored, it was ultimately determined that no replacements will be made in April. The FIA Formula 2, FIA Formula 3, and F1 Academy rounds will also not take place during their planned times. This decision has been made in full consultation with Formula One Group, local promoters, and our Member Clubs in the region.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem remarked: “The FIA will always prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues. After careful consideration, we have made this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.”
“We continue to hope for peace, safety, and a swift return to stability in the region, and my thoughts remain with all those impacted by these recent events. Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are vital to the framework of our racing season, and I look forward to returning to both venues as soon as conditions permit.”
“I extend my sincere gratitude to the promoters, our partners, and our colleagues across the championship for the collaborative and constructive approach that has led to this decision.”
No replacement races will be introduced, sources previously informed ESPN.
Both countries have been involved in the conflict between Iran and the United States and Israel.
The logistics for F1 to transport its freight globally necessitated a prompt decision regarding the races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Sources have indicated to ESPN that the decision to cancel Bahrain was straightforward, while the situation regarding Saudi Arabia was more complex.
The Saudis were advocating for their race to proceed as planned, but F1 was concerned about the potential risks of an escalation occurring close to the race with freight and personnel already present in the country.
The Saudi Arabian GP controversially took place in 2022 despite a missile strike on a nearby Aramco oil depot by Yemen’s Houthi rebels during a practice session at the circuit.
During that incident, drivers were reluctant to continue but were persuaded to proceed by F1 and the Saudi race organizers after a four-hour discussion.
While that attack occurred unexpectedly during an ongoing race weekend, F1 recognized that given the current situation in Iran, the safety risks were too significant to return to Saudi Arabia at this time.
ESPN’s Nate Saunders and PA contributed to this report.
Source: espn.com
