Formula 1 is already facing some difficulties in holding the 2026 season opener in Australia. Flight cancellations due to closed airspace in regions of the Middle East following the attacks between the United States, Israel, and Iran have caused delays in the logistics of the event participants. However, another concern is already looming over the paddock: the holding of the Bahrain GP.
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The race is scheduled for April, but with the escalation of the conflict, the possibility of cancellation is already being discussed. Bahrain is one of the most affected areas so far, as it houses one of the US bases that is being targeted by Iranian attacks. The site is located about 30 km from the Bahrain International Circuit, the venue for the F1 round that recently hosted pre-season testing.
In addition to the natural concern, another factor is hindering the event: the governments of the United Kingdom and the Netherlands have issued a “do not travel” order for the country. In other words, travelers from these countries may not be entitled to insurance while the order is active. The Dutch government’s note says: “Regardless of your situation: do not travel there. It is too dangerous. The Dutch embassy will not be able to help you if you get into trouble.”
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Currently, delegations from Mercedes, McLaren, and Pirelli are in Bahrain, with no scheduled departure. The teams were to participate in a tire test that was canceled. Among the personnel is Nyck de Vries, the British team’s test driver.
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