Bahrain, Saudi GP Under Review: FIA Debate Over F1 Races Amid Middle East Tensions

Last Updated:March 03, 2026, 17:15 IST

F1 and FIA prioritize safety for Bahrain and Saudi races amid tensions in the Middle East.

Formula One and the governing body, the FIA, say safety will dictate any decisions regarding next month’s races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia as tensions escalate in the Middle East.

The conflict — sparked by U.S. and Israeli bombing of Iran and followed by retaliatory strikes across parts of the Gulf — has disrupted aviation in one of the world’s busiest travel hubs.

With airspace closures affecting Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, team logistics have been forced into rapid adjustments.

No Impact on Melbourne Opener

Despite the upheaval, this weekend’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix at Melbourne’s Albert Park is expected to proceed without disruption.

Australian GP chief executive Travis Auld said Formula One had swiftly reorganised travel plans for teams and personnel who were transiting through Gulf nations after pre-season testing in Bahrain.

“F1 are experts at moving people around the world," Auld told Fox Sports. “Everyone’s now locked in and arriving within the required timeframes."

April Races Under Review

The championship heads to China and Japan after Melbourne before staging Gulf rounds in April at the Bahrain International Circuit and Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the federation remains in close contact with promoters, teams and member clubs.

“Safety and wellbeing will guide our decisions," he said, noting that both the FIA World Endurance Championship and Formula One calendar could be affected.

Formula One added it is “closely monitoring" developments.

High Stakes for the Sport

The Middle East is financially significant to F1. Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund owns McLaren Racing, Qatar backs Audi’s F1 entry, and Saudi energy giant Aramco is both a global partner of the sport and title sponsor of Aston Martin.

In 2022, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix proceeded despite nearby rocket attacks on an oil facility in Jeddah, underlining F1’s history of navigating complex geopolitical landscapes.

While Melbourne is unlikely to host a replacement race due to its temporary street circuit setup, Formula One maintains contingency plans and alternative venues should schedule changes become necessary.

(with Reuters inputs)

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