Unrest in the Middle East threatens to have major consequences for F1 again. Multiple sources report that the WEC is already about to adjust the calendar, replacing the races in Qatar and Bahrain with events in Barcelona and Monza. If the plans are approved, this also raises questions about the course of the F1 season; the planned races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi would also be in jeopardy.
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According to the WEC’s emergency plan, which was reportedly presented during the race weekend in São Paulo, the planned races in Qatar and Bahrain will be moved to Barcelona and Monza respectively. The plans must be approved during a meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council, presumably on July 23. The organization behind the endurance championship has been working on alternative scenarios for some time, after having to postpone the season opener in Qatar earlier this year. Due to ongoing security risks in the Gulf region and travel restrictions for manufacturers, suppliers, and other involved parties, a return currently seems unfeasible.
F1 calendar
The situation is highly relevant for the course of the F1 season. The Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix, originally scheduled for April, have already been canceled. Meanwhile, the sprint weekend in Qatar and the season finale in Abu Dhabi are also under pressure.
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During the last British GP, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali still spoke of a catch-up opportunity for Bahrain in October. Although an extra race is financially attractive, it also places a higher burden on the staff. Domenicali emphasized that a second chance for Bahrain is only possible if circumstances allow it. “If there is something we can announce – also with regard to the available space on the calendar – we will only do so at the right time and under the right circumstances.
Given the current situation in the Middle East and developments within the WEC, however, the chance that Bahrain will return to the calendar seems small. The premier class will have to consider possible replacement races for Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Max Verstappen and others may possibly move to available circuits in Europe. In Silverstone, Domenicali confirmed that he wants to provide clarity about the planning before the summer break.
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