Formula 1: Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races under threat due to conflict in the Middle East

Grand Prix racing in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia is under threat as a result of the US-Israel war with Iran.

The countries are among the Gulf states targeted by retaliatory missiles launched by Iran in response to US-Israeli air strikes.

Bahrain is scheduled to host the fourth race of the season from April 10 to 12, with Saudi Arabia hosting the race in Jeddah a week later.

The missiles hit hotels, civilian and energy infrastructure, as well as targeting US bases in the countries.

The US naval base in the Bahraini capital, Manama, was subjected to Iranian missile attack. It is located in the Juffair area, which is one of the areas of the city where F1 employees reside.

The Saudi race is located near an oil refinery that four years ago was the target of a missile attack by the Houthi rebels in Yemen.

A statement from Formula 1 said: “Our next three races will be in Australia, China and Japan and not in the Middle East – those races are not for several weeks.”

“As always, we closely monitor any situation like this and work closely with the relevant authorities and will always prioritize the safety and security of everyone working in the sport.”

Although the Bahrain Grand Prix is ​​five weeks away, Formula 1 has no more than two weeks before it makes a decision on whether the two races can be held due to the need to transport equipment by sea to the two countries.