The Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix, scheduled for next month, are poised for cancellation due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
A formal announcement is anticipated this weekend, as the logistical demands for shipping freight to the region require immediate decisions. With no resolution in sight for the US/Israel-Iran conflict, organizers deem the risk to personnel too high.
These cancellations will reduce the season to 22 Grands Prix, impacting Formula 1's revenue by over £100 million, as both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are high-paying hosts.
Alternative venues like Portimao, Imola, or Istanbul were considered but deemed logistically unfeasible on short notice. The decision creates a five-week gap in the F1 calendar.