Alpine driver Pierre Gasly expressed confidence that Formula 1 will reach the right decision regarding the April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The uncertainty follows recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which provoked retaliatory attacks by Iran on neighboring Gulf countries, including Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, both hosting US military bases.
While the opening trio of races for the current F1 season—the Australian Grand Prix this weekend, followed by events in China and Japan later this month—remain unaffected, organizers continue to monitor the volatile situation closely before confirming the fate of the two Middle Eastern contests scheduled for April 10-12 in Bahrain and April 17-19 in Saudi Arabia.
Pierre Gasly Shares Personal Perspective on Regional Tensions
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Gasly, who has family in the Middle East, reflected on the difficult reality of following the conflict from afar.
“Hopefully things will get better, but, ultimately, F1 will make the right decision and what’s best for all of us.”
—Pierre Gasly, Alpine driver
He emphasized his trust in the leadership responsible for deciding the calendar’s future and acknowledged the complexity involved given the stakes for all parties.
Other Motorsport Entities Respond to Regional Instability
The tension in the Gulf has already impacted other racing series. The World Endurance Championship (WEC) announced the postponement of its season opener in Qatar, originally set for March 26-28. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed concern over the unrest.
“The FIA continues to monitor developments across the region and our thoughts remain with all those affected by these recent events as we hope for calm, safety and a return to stability.”
—Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA president
Potential Adjustments to the 2026 Formula 1 Calendar if Middle East Races Are Cancelled
With the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia rounds uncertain, Sky Sports motorsport reporter Nigel Chiu outlined the calendar challenges and contingencies under consideration. Formula 1 management hopes for a swift resolution to the regional conflict but remains prepared to act if necessary.
He noted that although May features a three-week gap and there is a traditional four-week shutdown in August, the remainder of the calendar consists of closely packed weekends, complicating any rescheduling efforts.
Portugal’s Portimao and Italy’s Imola circuits are considered likely replacement venues should the Middle Eastern races be cancelled outright. However, any final decision must be made by mid-March to allow teams and organizers sufficient preparation time.
“Should there be no races in April or the three-week gap in May, only the Miami Grand Prix (May 1-3) would be staged following the Japanese Grand Prix at the end of March to the Canadian Grand Prix towards the end of May.”
—Nigel Chiu, Sky Sports reporter
Schedule for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix Broadcast on Sky Sports
The season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix from March 6-8, with extensive live coverage and associated sessions scheduled throughout the weekend. Highlights include practice runs, qualifying, sprint races, and the main event, accompanied by expert analysis and post-race commentary.
The detailed timetable begins on Thursday with drivers’ press conferences and practice sessions, followed by qualifying rounds and sprint races on Friday and Saturday. The Grand Prix takes place on Sunday, with continuous broadcast coverage on Sky Sports Main Event and streaming available via NOW, allowing fans to watch the opening round live.
Impact and Outlook Amid Regional Uncertainty
The evolving situation in the Middle East introduces challenges for both Formula 1 and the broader motorsport community, highlighting the complex interplay between global events and international sporting calendars. While the early races remain on track, the potential postponement or cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia rounds would require swift and strategic adjustments to preserve the continuity of the 2026 season.
The decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial in ensuring safety and maintaining the sport’s momentum. Should replacements be necessary, circuits such as Portimao and Imola stand ready to host, demonstrating the sport’s flexibility in the face of geopolitical uncertainties.
