The Formula 1 races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been cancelled in the wake of the ongoing Iran war, organisers have confirmed.
Both races were set to be held in April and alternatives were considered but rejected, the FIA said in a statement.
The Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds have also been cancelled.
Organisers said they could not go ahead due to the “ongoing situation in the Middle East region”.
Bahrain in particular has been targeted heavily by Iran since the war broke out at the end of last month.
Read more: Live updates on Iran war
The cancellations create a five-week gap in the F1 calendar with no races in April, affecting teams, broadcasters and fans worldwide.
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Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said the “difficult” decision was the “right one” amid intensifying strikes across the region.
He added: “I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion.
“We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so.”
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Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA President, added: “The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind.
“We continue to hope for calm, safety and a swift return to stability in the region, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by these recent events.”
The move has also been backed 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.”
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The current F1 season continues this weekend with the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday.
