In a significant disruption to the 2023 Formula One calendar, motorsport’s governing body has officially canceled the Grands Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The International Automobile Federation (FIA) announced the decision on Saturday following extensive consultations with Formula One Group, regional promoters, and member clubs.
The Bahrain Grand Prix, originally scheduled for April 10-12 as the season’s fourth race, and the subsequent Saudi Arabian event have been called off due to escalating regional security concerns. The Middle East has experienced sustained military actions, including Iranian drone and missile attacks over the past two weeks, following the initiation of hostilities by the United States and Israel against Iran.
Bahrain, located just across the Gulf from Iran, has suffered repeated attacks affecting infrastructure including buildings, refineries, and its substantial US military installation. Similarly, Saudi Arabia has endured multiple strikes targeting its crucial oil infrastructure, posing significant security challenges for international events.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized that community safety remained the paramount consideration in reaching this difficult decision. ‘The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first,’ Sulayem stated. ‘After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.’
The cancellation extends beyond Formula One to include Formula 2, Formula 3, and F1 Academy events that were scheduled during the same period. Additionally, the World Endurance Championship’s opening round in Qatar, initially set for March 26-28, has been postponed until October.
Despite evaluating several alternatives, organizers determined that no substitute events would be arranged for April. The championship will now proceed directly from the Japanese Grand Prix (March 27-29) to the Miami Grand Prix in early May, creating an extended gap in the racing calendar.
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who secured pole position for Sunday’s Chinese Grand Prix, expressed solidarity with those affected by the conflict, acknowledging that F1 authorities would prioritize safety in their decision-making process.