Formula One (F1) races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been canceled as war engulfs the region, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) announced on Saturday.
“It has been confirmed today that, after careful evaluations, due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East region, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April,” the FIA said in a statement.
“While several alternatives were considered, it was ultimately decided that no substitutions will be made in April,” it said. “The decision has been taken in full consultation with Formula One Group, local promoters and our member clubs in the region.
Photo: Reuters
Bahrain was scheduled as the fourth Grand Prix this season to take place April 10-12, with the Saudi race a week later.
The Gulf has been battered by two weeks of Iranian drone and missile attacks after the US and Israel launched their war on Iran.
Bahrain, with its proximity to Iran, has been targeted with frequent attacks that have hit buildings and a refinery, as well as its large US military base.
Saudi Arabia has weathered scores of strikes, some of them targeting crucial oil infrastructure.
“The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first,” FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said.
“After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind,” he said. “We continue to hope for calm, safety and a swift return to stability in the region, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by these recent events.”
Drivers expressed concern for those in the region.
“My thoughts, and I think it’s the same for Lewis and George, are with the ones that are suffering from this situation,” Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli said ahead of the race in Shanghai yesterday. “Formula One and the FIA, they will handle the situation the best way possible in order to guarantee everyone’s safety.”
The Japanese Grand Prix takes place on March 27-29, with the following F1 race now the Miami Grand Prix on May 1-3.
Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy events Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are scrubbed.
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