F1 calls off Apr. races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia
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The FIA has confirmed that the World Endurance Championship’s Qatar 1812km race scheduled for March 26–28 at Lusail International Circuit will not take place as planned, citing the evolving geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
Like many, F1 staff are anxiously watching the current Middle East conflict. Decisions on the 2026 races occurring there soon must be taken
The World Endurance Championship (WEC) called off its season-opening race in Qatar on Tuesday as a result of U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran and the closure of airports in the region including Doha.
Formula 1 clashes likely to block MotoGP’s rumoured Qatar finale date. MotoGP’s rumoured plan to move the Grand Prix of Qatar to December looks unlikely, as Formula 1 is set to take priority over the Lusail International Circuit during that time.
The escalating conflict in the Middle East is casting a long shadow over global sports, placing the schedules of icons like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lewis Hamilton in jeopardy.
Formula One has said it is “closely monitoring” the situation in the Middle East ahead of upcoming races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Missile strikes continue to rock the region after United States and Israeli forces attacked Iran with several countries closing their airspace.