WEC issue 'rigorous' statement ahead of season-opener amid Middle East crisis

The FIA World Endurance Championship has confirmed it is "closely monitoring" the escalating Middle East conflict, as uncertainty grows over the series' scheduled season opener in Qatar next month.

Both the pre-season Prologue test and the Qatar 1812km remain officially on the calendar at Lusail International Circuit, with track activities due to commence in less than three weeks.

However, the ongoing military action between the United States, Israel, and Iran has cast serious doubt over the viability of the Gulf state events.

The crisis began on Saturday with sustained retaliatory strikes across the region, including multiple explosions from missile and drone attacks reported in Doha. Neighbouring Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates have also been targeted, leading to widespread airspace closures and the temporary shutdown of all regional airports.

Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport have both sustained damage from air strikes, whilst the situation remains extremely fluid across the Gulf states.

The motorsport implications extend beyond WEC, with Formula 1's planned Pirelli tyre test at Bahrain International Circuit also cancelled due to the security concerns.

"The FIA World Endurance Championship is closely monitoring the ongoing situation in the Middle East, a process of rigorous assessment that has been underway for several weeks," read an official championship statement released on Sunday.

"The safety and security of our competitors, personnel and fans remains our absolute priority. Accordingly, the FIA WEC management is in constant, direct communication with the relevant authorities in Qatar."

The championship confirmed it is holding regular meetings with Qatari authorities regarding both the Prologue sessions on 22-23 March and the Qatar 1812km scheduled for 26-28 March.

Complications arise from the significant amount of equipment already positioned in the region, with several manufacturers having recently completed testing programmes in Qatar. Additional teams were due to conduct sessions at the Bahrain International Circuit within the fortnight.

Should the Qatar events require postponement or cancellation, organising alternative European rounds before the currently scheduled second race at Imola in mid-April could prove logistically challenging, particularly given the need to air freight equipment back from the Gulf region.

The championship has pledged to "continue evaluating the situation daily," with further updates promised as necessary.