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sports1d ago
Inside F1’s decision to cancel Bahrain and Saudi Arabian GPs, and what comes next
- F1 cancels the planned 2026 Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races due to the Middle East conflict.
- The decision was made after discussions with race promoters, local authorities, and teams amid travel and airspace disruptions.
- A five-week gap between the Japan and Miami races reduces the calendar but removes viable stand-in events.
- Stand-in races were not pursued due to short notice and insufficient hosting fees for viable replacements.
- The calendar retains a 22-round limit, with the canceled races not replaceable within the year.
- Teams will gain a five-week break, offering time for rest and car development amid 2026’s demands.
- The decision highlights safety and regional stability as priorities over hosting fees.
- FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem underscored Bahrain and Saudi Arabia’s importance to the race ecosystem.
- The cancellation follows airstrikes and regional tensions after early February strikes on U.S. bases in Bahrain and elsewhere.
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