The outlook for the remainder of the 2026 Formula 1 season remains positive, despite the recent cancellations of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix.
On March 15, Formula 1 announced that the Bahrain Grand Prix (April 10-12) and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (April 17-19) would not take place due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Although several alternatives were considered, it was decided that the two races would not be replaced.
Many fans affected by the cancellations are opting to attend races elsewhere rather than cancelling their trips altogether.
“For clients impacted by the cancellations of the Bahrain Grand Prix and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, we are focusing on flexibility and positive alternatives to ensure their Formula 1 experience is not lost. We have been reaching out to affected clients to discuss alternative options across the season, and many have responded positively, choosing to attend other Formula 1 events. Several clients are choosing to shift their bookings rather than cancel,” said Angie Cachao, Sports Travel Contracting Manager at Thompsons Holidays.
She said popular alternatives include the British Grand Prix in July and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December.
However, some travellers have chosen to cancel their travel plans.
“We send out regular communications once official statements are received from the event organisers. As a result, a few have chosen to cancel their travel arrangements while some have selected other F1 races to attend,” said Nicky Bell, CEO of Edusport.
According to Bell, some clients have shifted their interest to races taking place in Europe.
Impact on rest of the season
Although races in the Middle East region remain a concern, the rest of the F1 season is expected to remain largely unaffected.
With the cancellations isolated to the early Middle East schedule, Cachao anticipates a shift in bookings to the European or North American races. “For now, the rest of the season is unaffected, we will see a shift in bookings to North American and European races, in particular Great Britain, Monaco and Italy,” said Cachao.
Bell said it is too soon to determine whether there will be a greater impact on the rest of the Formula 1 season.
“While the cancellations of the Bahrain Grand Prix and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix are unfortunate, the overall outlook for the Formula 1 season remains very positive. Formula 1 has a strong and diverse global calendar that it can adapt quickly when challenges arise,” said Cachao.
“Interest in Formula 1 travel remains extremely strong, and clients are still very eager to attend races around the world. Many have already shown flexibility by exploring alternative races and destinations, which in some cases has even enhanced their travel plans,” added Cachao.
