Formula 1 schedules 2027 season-opening race in Bahrain in March despite Middle East uncertainty, tell me about this news in (https://www.wral.com/news/ap/67338-formula-1-schedules-2027-season-opening-race-in-bahrain-in-march-despite-middle-east-uncertainty/)
16-09-2026
This report details Formula 1’s announcement of its 2027 race calendar, reaffirming its commitment to racing in the Middle East despite ongoing geopolitical tensions:
- 2027 Season Opener in Bahrain: Formula 1 has scheduled the 2027 season opener to take place at the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 14, 2027. Bahrain is also slated to host preseason testing in February 2027.
- Middle East Commitments: Alongside Bahrain, the 2027 schedule retains races in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, all of which have long-term hosting agreements with Formula 1.
- Recent Disruptions: The scheduling comes after the 2026 Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were cancelled earlier in the season due to regional conflict and security concerns surrounding the Iran war. An extra race in Malaysia was organized to carry the Bahrain Grand Prix branding.
- Upcoming 2026 Races: While the 2026 Qatar Grand Prix (scheduled for November 29) and the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (scheduled for December 6) remain on the current calendar, Formula 1 has reviewed contingency options to move them to European venues if they cannot safely proceed.