For Formula 1 as a global racing series, the recent escalation in the Middle East poses logistical challenges. Despite the flight chaos, nothing stands in the way of the start of the season in Australia.
04.03.2026, 05:07
04.03.2026, 07:01
SDA
Due to the American-Israeli attacks on Iran and Tehran's counter-attacks, air traffic in large parts of the Middle East has largely come to a standstill. Around a thousand employees who work for Formula 1 itself or for the racing teams had to change their travel plans. Many chose alternative routes via Singapore or Hong Kong instead of flying to Australia via Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha (Qatar).
Travis Auld, General Manager of the season opener in Melbourne on Sunday (5.00 a.m. Swiss time), emphasized that this should have no impact on the Grand Prix: "The drivers will be here. The engineers will be here. The team principals will be here." The cars have also long since arrived at the circuit in containers, said Auld.
There are currently bigger question marks over the fourth race of the season on April 12 in Bahrain, where the two-day tire tests were canceled by Pirelli at the weekend, as well as the race a week later in Saudi Arabia. "As always, we are monitoring these situations closely and working closely with the relevant authorities," explained a Formula 1 spokesperson.
The Chinese Grand Prix will follow a week after the season opener in Australia, with another two weeks later in Japan. Only the last two of a total of 24 Grands Prix will take place in the Middle East again: Qatar on November 29 and, traditionally, Abu Dhabi on December 6 will conclude the 2026 World Championship season.
