Formula 1: Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races under threat because of conflict in Middle East
The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is under threat as a result of the US-Israeli war with Iran.
The two countries are among the Gulf countries targeted by retaliatory missiles launched by Iran in response to US-Israeli air strikes.
Bahrain will host the fourth race of the season from 10 to 12 April, with Saudi Arabia hosting the race in Jeddah a week later.
In addition to hitting hotels, civilian and energy infrastructure, the missiles also target American bases in these countries.
The US naval base in Manama, Bahrain’s capital, has already been hit by Iranian missiles. It is located in the Juffair area, one of the areas of the city where F1 personnel stay.
The Saudi Arabian race is near an oil refinery that was the target of a missile attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels four years ago.
F1’s statement said: “Our next three races are not in the Middle East but in Australia, China and Japan; these races are not for a few weeks.”
“As always, we monitor such situations closely, work closely with the relevant authorities and will always prioritize the safety of everyone in the sport.”
Although the Bahrain Grand Prix is five weeks away, F1 has no more than two weeks to decide whether the two races can go ahead due to the need to send equipment to the two countries.
