Formula 1 cancels races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to Iran war

Formula 1 is officially canceling two upcoming races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the Iran war and the widening conflict in the Middle East, it announced Saturday

Formula 1 is officially canceling two upcoming races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the Iran war and the widening conflict in the Middle East, it announced Saturday.

The Bahrain Grand Prix was scheduled for April 12, and the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix for April 19.

“While several alternatives were considered, it was ultimately decided that no substitutions will be made in April,” said a joint press release by F1’s commercial side and governing body, FIA.

NBC News had reported Friday that the races were expected to be canceled, based on sources familiar with the matter, with an announcement possible this weekend.

“While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East,” F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said, while thanking the would-be hosts. “We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so.”