Formula 1 races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been canceled in the wake of the Iran war, organizers have confirmed.
Both races were scheduled to be held in April and alternatives were considered but rejected, the FIA said in a statement.
Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds have also been cancelled.
Organizers said they could not proceed due to the “ongoing situation in the Middle East region”.
Bahrain in particular has been heavily targeted by Iran The war began At the end of last month.
Read More: Iran War Live Updates
The cancellations create a five-week gap in the F1 calendar with no races in April, affecting teams, broadcasters and fans worldwide.
Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said the “difficult” decision was “right” amid intensifying strikes across the region.
He said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FIA and our incredible promoters for their support and full understanding as they look forward to hosting us with their usual energy and enthusiasm.
“We can’t wait to get back with them as soon as circumstances allow us to do so.”
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FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said, “The FIA always puts the safety and well-being of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.
“We continue to hope for a speedy return to calm, safety and stability in the region, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by these recent events.”
This move has also been supported by the Saudi royal family.
Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal said: “We understand the considerations behind this decision and will be in close partnership with Formula 1.”
The current F1 season continues this weekend with the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday.
