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Formula 1 races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been canceled due to the ongoing Iran war, organizers have confirmed.
Both races were scheduled to be held in April and alternatives were considered but rejected, the FIA said in a statement.
Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds were also cancelled.
Organizers said they were unable to go ahead with the event due to “the ongoing situation in the Middle East region”.
Bahrain in particular has been a big Iranian target since the incident war broke out at the end of last month.
Read more: Live updates on Iran war
The cancellation creates a five-week gap in the F1 calendar with no races in April, impacting teams, broadcasters and fans around the world.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said the “difficult” decision was the “right decision” amid escalating strikes across the region.
He added: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their total support and understanding as they look forward to hosting us with their usual energy and enthusiasm.
“We can’t wait to get back with them as soon as circumstances allow us to.”
Read more from Sky News:
Tehran responds to US bombing of Kharg island
How did the Iran war affect British plans?
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President, added: “The FIA will always put the safety and welfare of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we took this decision with that responsibility in mind.
“We continue to hope for calm, security and a return to stability in the region, and my thoughts are with all those affected by recent events.”
This step was also supported by the Saudi royal family.
Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal said: “We understand the considerations behind this decision and remain in close partnership with Formula 1.”
The current F1 season continues this weekend with the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday.
