Both the Bahrain Grand Prix and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix remain on the official 2026 calendar but are reported to be at significant risk. This page tracks the latest confirmed information, key decision dates, and practical guidance for fans.
Both races remain officially scheduled. The Bahrain Grand Prix is set for April 10–12 and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for April 17–19 on the current 2026 FIA calendar.
Major outlets report they are at risk. Reuters and other credible sources have reported that both events are likely to be dropped from the 2026 calendar amid the regional security situation.
No official cancellation has been announced. As of the last update, neither the FIA, Formula 1, nor the race promoters have confirmed cancellation.
We will update this page as soon as any official confirmation is issued. For the current full schedule, see the 2026 race calendar.
The timing of any announcement is driven by logistics — freight must be committed weeks in advance.
Australian Grand Prix weekend (Melbourne). Calendar discussions reported to be ongoing.
Reported decision point during the Shanghai Grand Prix weekend. This is understood to be the latest practical date for committing freight to the Middle East.
Japanese Grand Prix (Suzuka). Final logistics window before Bahrain freight deadlines.
Bahrain Grand Prix — currently scheduled.
Saudi Arabian Grand Prix — currently scheduled.
Miami Grand Prix — next scheduled race if both Middle East rounds are dropped.
If both races are removed, the 2026 calendar would have a five-week gap between the Japanese Grand Prix (March 27–29) and the Miami Grand Prix (May 1–3).
This would reduce the season from 24 races to 22 — the shortest calendar since 2020, when the season was disrupted by COVID-19.
A five-week gap mid-season is unusual in modern F1, where the calendar typically maintains two- or three-week intervals.
Finding replacement races at short notice is exceptionally difficult.
Reuters has reported that replacements are unlikely. Organising a Grand Prix requires months of preparation.
Weather and venue availability further limit options.
Financial considerations are significant. Saudi Arabia is reported to pay one of the highest hosting fees on the calendar — reported by industry sources to be in the region of $55–65 million annually.
Bahrain 2011 is the most relevant precedent. The race was initially postponed from its original March date due to civil unrest. It was not rescheduled or run later that season.
The 2011 situation developed over several weeks, with the FIA first postponing and then ultimately removing the race from the calendar. The event returned in 2012.
Other calendar disruptions — including the COVID-affected 2020 and 2021 seasons — involved different circumstances and different response mechanisms.
Thousands of fans have booked flights, hotels, and experiences. Uncertainty makes planning difficult.
Losing two consecutive races creates a gap that affects the competitive rhythm of the season.
F1 moves over 1,400 tonnes of equipment between races. Rerouting at short notice is a major operational challenge.
Hosting fees, broadcast schedules, and sponsorship activations are all affected by calendar changes.
If you have travel insurance, check whether your policy covers event cancellation due to geopolitical situations. Many standard policies do not — specialist event cancellation cover may be required.
Practical contingency guide covering tickets, insurance, flights, and hotels.
Read Guide Replacement Race OptionsWhat circuits could replace Bahrain and Saudi Arabia — and why it's unlikely.
Read Guide 2026 F1 Race CalendarView the full 2026 schedule including all confirmed dates and formats.
View Calendar