FIA issues urgent statement amid escalating Middle East conflict

The world is watching the Middle East with growing concern. The recent strikes carried out by Israel and the United States against Iran have rattled global stability. And while sports may seem like the least important issue amid such turmoil, international competition has been heavily affected. The situation became so tense that some even questioned whether the Formula 1 season opener in Melbourne could go ahead this weekend — not because of Australia itself, but due to major logistical challenges. Teams have had to reroute flights and avoid large sections of closed airspace across the Arabian Peninsula.

Fortunately, the Australian Grand Prix remains on track, and it appears the entire F1 paddock will make it to Melbourne without major disruption. But the two April races are far less certain. Formula 1 is scheduled to head to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia on April 12 and April 17, respectively. With just over a month to go, both events are now in serious doubt.

The FIA is closely monitoring the situation with what its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, described as “uncertainty” in his latest statement. Several upcoming race locations have even been identified as potential targets of recent missile activity.

Qatar is also in the spotlight. The country is set to host the prologue and season opener of the World Endurance Championship (WEC), which is now under threat despite being scheduled to begin this month. A Pirelli tire test planned for Bahrain has already been canceled.

MotoGP isn’t immune either — the series is supposed to race in Losail on April 12, a long‑standing stop on its calendar. For now, many questions remain unanswered, and the FIA says it will evaluate the situation in the coming weeks, emphasizing that “safety and well‑being” will guide all decisions.

Full statement from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem

“As President of the FIA, my thoughts are with all those affected by the recent events in the Middle East. We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and stand with the families and communities impacted.

In this moment of uncertainty, we hope for calm, safety, and a swift return to stability. Dialogue and the protection of civilians must remain priorities.

We are in close contact with our member clubs, championship promoters, teams, and colleagues on the ground as we monitor developments with care and responsibility.

Safety and well‑being will guide our decisions as we assess the upcoming events scheduled there for the FIA World Endurance Championship and the FIA Formula One World Championship.

Our organization is built on unity and a shared purpose. That unity matters now more than ever".

Mohammed Ben Sulayem

President of the FIA”

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