The BBC reports that Formula 1 races scheduled to take place in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are likely to be canceled due to the ongoing war in the Middle East. The decision, expected to be announced by the end of the week, comes as logistics for transporting equipment to the region would need to begin soon. With no end in sight for the conflict, organizing the races poses considerable safety risks.

Originally set for April 12 and April 19, the races are essential events in the F1 calendar. However, the governing body has considered alternative venues in Portimão, Portugal; Imola, Italy; and Istanbul Park, Turkey, to potentially host the races. Unfortunately, the tight timeline for arranging such significant events has made it impossible to find suitable replacements, leading to the decision that the races will not be rescheduled.

This cancellation will reduce the F1 season to 22 races, impacting not only the drivers and teams but also significant commercial interests associated with these events. The financial implications of the cancellations are still being assessed, but the drop in events could lead to substantial revenue losses for both the F1 organization and the affected countries that were set to host the races.