MELBOURNE, 15 March 2026 – The 2026 Formula 1 season has been dramatically reshaped just one round in, with the sport’s commercial rights holder confirming the cancellation of two races due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, scheduled for April, will not take place, reducing the championship to a 22-race calendar and creating a significant five-week gap in the early-season schedule.
Official Confirmation and Immediate Impact
In a statement released today, Formula 1 confirmed that “after careful evaluations, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April.” The decision, driven by escalating regional tensions, means the sport will not visit the Middle East in the first part of the season. According to industry reports cited by RaceFans, the move will cost the sport over £100 million (approximately A$190 million) in hosting fees and related revenue, with neither event slated for replacement.
Revised 2026 Calendar Structure
The season commenced with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne last weekend, which was won by George Russell for Mercedes. The championship continues this very weekend with the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai (13-15 March), marking the sport’s return to the circuit after a prolonged absence. Following this weekend’s action, the series will head to Japan’s Suzuka circuit on 29 March.
However, the cancellation of the Bahrain (originally early April) and Saudi Arabian (mid-April) rounds now creates an unprecedented five-week break. The next confirmed event after Japan is the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May, leaving teams and fans with a lengthy hiatus. The season is now set to conclude with its planned triple-header in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi in November and December.
Fan and Industry Reaction
The news has dominated discussion within the F1 community. Fans in Melbourne reported a vibrant atmosphere at the season opener, with many praising the off-track activations and support races. However, the focus has swiftly shifted to the geopolitical situation and its impact on the sport. On fan forums, the prevailing sentiment is one of disappointment tempered by understanding, with many acknowledging that safety and stability must come first.
Meanwhile, the new 2026 technical regulations, which debuted in Australia, remain a hot topic. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc hinted that Mercedes’ early pace might be influencing defending of the new rules, while a report from GPBlog suggests the FIA could review the regulations after just a few rounds, with a key meeting planned following the Chinese Grand Prix.
Broader Context and Looking Ahead
The cancellations represent one of the most significant mid-calendar changes in recent F1 history and underscore the sport’s complex relationship with its host nations. All attention now turns to Shanghai, where the competitive order under the new rules will be further scrutinised. With a long break looming after Japan, teams face an extended period for development, potentially altering the trajectory of the championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which F1 races have been cancelled for 2026?
The Bahrain Grand Prix and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, both scheduled for April 2026, have been officially cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
How many races are now on the 2026 F1 calendar?
The 2026 season has been reduced from a planned 24 races to 22 races following these cancellations.
Will the cancelled races be replaced?
No. Formula 1 has confirmed that neither event will be replaced on the 2026 calendar.
What is the financial impact of these cancellations?
Industry reports estimate the cancellations will cost Formula 1 over £100 million (approximately A$190 million) in lost hosting fees and associated revenue.
When is the next F1 race after Japan?
Following the Japanese Grand Prix on 29 March, there will be a five-week break until the next race, the Miami Grand Prix, on 3 May 2026.