Overview
- Formula 1 confirmed on March 15 that the April 12 Bahrain and April 19 Saudi Arabian Grands Prix are canceled, citing the inability to guarantee safety amid the regional security situation.
- No replacement events are planned, reducing the 2026 championship to 22 races.
- Ticket remedies are active: Bahrain refunds are automatic with an option for credits, Saudi refunds via the official site are due within 21 working days, and many travelers can cancel bookings free under government advisories and EU passenger-rights rules.
- Teams are rerouting upgrades originally planned for the Middle East to Miami or Montreal, while freight and equipment left in Bahrain add transport costs that count under the budget cap.
- The FIA is evaluating how to adjust the ADUO measurement windows and season segmentation for a 22-race calendar, including options to rebase timing by dates or shorten the first cycle.