Manama: Formula 1 confirmed early Sunday that the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April due to escalating tensions in the Middle East because of the US-Israeli war with Iran.

According to Anadolu Agency, a statement from Formula 1 indicated that several alternatives were considered, but it was ultimately decided that no replacement races would be held in April. 'The Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 ACADEMY rounds will also not take place during their scheduled times. The decision has been taken in full consultation with the FIA (Federal Internationale de l'Automobile) and respective promoters,' the statement said.

Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula One Group, mentioned that while the decision was difficult, it was the right step given the situation in the Middle East. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed hope to return to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia as soon as circumstances allow, acknowledging their importance to the racing season.

Chief Executive of the Bahrain International Circuit Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa expressed support for Formula 1's decision, thanking the FIA and the F1 community. He conveyed Bahrain's eagerness to welcome fans back when F1 returns. Similarly, HRH Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and the Saudi Motorsport Company, stated that the Kingdom respects F1's 2026 calendar decision and emphasized the continued partnership with Formula 1.

The backdrop to these developments is the joint attacks launched by Israel and the US against Iran on February 28, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has since retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and other countries in the region hosting US military assets.