Shanghai (China), Mar. 15 (LaPresse) – Formula 1 and the FIA have cancelled the upcoming Grands Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia for safety reasons related to the war with Iran. The announcement was made early Sunday morning in Shanghai, ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix. Formula 1 was scheduled to race in Bahrain on April 12 and in the Saudi city of Jeddah on April 19. "Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East region, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April," Formula 1 stated. "Although several alternatives were considered, it was ultimately decided that no replacements will be made in April." "It was a difficult decision to make, but unfortunately it is the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East," said Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1. The FIA stated that the two races "will not take place in April" and that no replacements will be organised. "The FIA will always prioritise the safety and well-being of our community and colleagues. After careful assessment, we made this decision with this responsibility firmly in mind," said Federation President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The cancellation of the races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia means there will be a five-week break between the Japanese Grand Prix on March 29 and the next race, the Miami Grand Prix on May 3. Without replacements, the 22-race calendar would be the shortest since 2023.
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