Formula 1 has confirmed the cancellation of the April Grand Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia as a result of the ongoing war in the Middle East.
While alternatives were considered, authorities ultimately decided “after careful evaluations” not to go ahead or confirm substitutions for the 10-12 April races for Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia a week later.
The Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds will also be cancelled.
No timeline has been given for when races might be rescheduled.
“While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East,” said Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula 1.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion. We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so,” he added.
FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem noted that “Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are incredibly important to the ecosystem of our racing season,” and reiterated hopes for “calm, safety and a swift return to stability in the region”.
“For the fans who are always following us, first of all – be safe. We are thinking of you and want to come back as soon as possible,” added an official spokesperson on the Formula 1 site.
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