Formula 1 announced on Saturday that it is officially canceling two races scheduled for Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the Iran war and the growing conflict in the Middle East.
The Bahrain Grand Prix was scheduled for April 12th and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on April 19th.
“Several alternatives were considered, but ultimately it was decided that no replacement would take place in April,” a joint press release from F1’s commercial and governing body the FIA said.
NBC News reported Friday, based on sources familiar with the matter, that the race is expected to be canceled and that an announcement could come later this week.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed his gratitude to the host candidates, saying, “This was a difficult decision, but unfortunately given the current situation in the Middle East, it was the right one at this stage.” “I can’t wait to get back together with them as soon as conditions allow.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem added: “The FIA always puts the safety and well-being of our communities and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.”
The decision created a five-week gap between the Japanese Grand Prix on March 28 and the Miami Grand Prix on May 3, a commercial blow to the sport and a blow to fans.
F1 and FIA officials added that F2, F3 and F1 academy races scheduled in these countries will also not take place.
