The possibility of the Bahrain GP returning to the Formula 1 calendar in 2026 has once again become threatened after a new escalation of tensions in the Middle East. The scenario, which until recently indicated the race would take place in October, has become uncertain again due to the worsening situation in the region.
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In recent weeks, there was an expectation that the category would officially confirm the race for the first weekend of October. However, the most recent events have cast doubt on the viability of this plan and increased concerns about the necessary security for holding the event.
In recent days, the regional crisis has taken new turns. Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz to navigation, while the United States carried out new airstrikes against various Iranian targets. Additionally, warning sirens were activated between Saturday night and early Sunday morning in Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates following reports of new launches of Iranian missiles and drones against American positions in the region.
There is still no definition regarding the impact of these events on Formula 1. Previously released information indicated that the goal was to reschedule the Bahrain GP for the weekend of October 2 to 4, occupying the slot between the Azerbaijan and Singapore GPs.
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According to some sources, Formula 1 and also Formula 2 teams were awaiting an official announcement before the Belgian GP weekend. The expectation was that the confirmation would happen soon, as the return of the event seemed quite likely.
The Bahrain GP had been removed from the calendar at the start of the season, along with the Saudi Arabian GP, due to the war in the region. At the time, Formula One Management (FOM) described the decision as a postponement, not a definitive cancellation, keeping open the possibility of including the race at a later date.
If the event is still confirmed for October, Formula 1 will face an intense sequence of races. The plan foresaw a triple header with the Azerbaijan, Bahrain, and Singapore GPs on consecutive weekends, but the realization of this calendar will depend on the evolution of the security situation in the Middle East.
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