Fate of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia F1 GPs to be decided soon

The fate of the Saudi Arabia and Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix has been called into question as tension in the Middle East continues.

The US-Israeli war on Iran enters its second week, with Formula 1 set to touch down in the Gulf states next month.

F1 correspondent Hendrik Verwoed said that cancellations are on the cards for both races, especially if most teams cannot make it.

The British government has a travel advisory against visiting those countries, and with most teams based in the UK, insurance will be a huge deciding factor.

“There is absolutely no guarantee at this point that those two host countries will be able to guarantee the safety involved, not only the teams and personnel, but also the spectators.

“All indications point to those two events not taking place.”

He explained that the only real implications for Formula 1 are financial.

“There is no real pressure, apart from financial pressure (estimated at $100 million per race)… television contracts specify a minimum of 18 races, and also for it to be a credible world championship, so they have got leeway.”

It has been reported that there will be no replacements, shortening the racing calendar to 22 races with a five-week gap between the Japan (27-29 March) and Miami (1-3 May).

The sport returns to the Middle East for the last two races in December, in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said a decision would be made after the Chinese Grand Prix this weekend.

To listen to Verwoed in conversation with CapeTalk’s John Maytham, use the audio player below: