F1 to wield GP axe as WEC makes calendar change?

Formula 1 is expected to announce the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix this weekend, according to reports.

The decision will not come as a surprise, with the World Endurance Championship today confirming changes to its calendar for this season following the recent outbreak of war in the Arabian Gulf.

The Qatar 1812km was due to launch the season at the end of this month, but the battle between the United States/Israel and Iran, which has drawn the latter's neighbouring countries into the conflict, has forced WEC and the race's promoters to act.

A WEC statement read: "The current geopolitical instability in the Middle East obliged the postponement of the Qatari contest, which had been due to launch the 14th campaign of FIA WEC competition later this month.

"Following collaborative and constructive discussions with the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), Lusail International Circuit and Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, FIA WEC is pleased to confirm that the event is now set to take place from 22-24 October, making it the penultimate round of the 2026 season.

"The safety and security of competitors, personnel and fans remain of the utmost importance to QMMF, Lusail International Circuit, the FIA and the FIA WEC organisation, and all parties will continue to monitor developments across the region."

A prologue group test will initially take place at Imola on April 14. The circuit will then open the calendar with its six-hour race on April 17-19.

Unlike WEC, F1 is due to be left with a gaping hole in its calendar through April once confirmation of the cancellation of the races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, currently slated for the 12th and 19th of next month, is confirmed.

RacingNews365 understands that Saudi officials have lobbied F1 chiefs in recent days to remain in place on the calendar, but the continuing instability in the region is too big a hurdle to overcome, undermining the safety of all involved in the sport for the race at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

Despite talk of potential replacements, including Imola, it is understood F1 will not move to fill the void due to various logistical and financial constraints.