– Due to the dramatically escalating tensions in the Middle East, Pirelli has prematurely cancelled the tire tests planned for this weekend at the Bahrain International Circuit.
Read more Peugeot finally wants to win with the 9X8! What’s behind the design
The recent military clashes between Israel, the United States of America and Iran forced the Italian tire manufacturer to immediately cancel the test program in Sakhir.
In particular, the attacks on the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet stationed in Bahrain have fundamentally changed the security situation on the ground. Above all, however, the USA also uses the Isa Airbase, which is located only 15 kilometers from the Bahrain International Circuit.
At the same time, another airport, the Sakhir Airbase, which was built primarily for air shows, is located directly next to the race track. In case of doubt, it could certainly be confused with the Isa Airbase. Thus, there is a high level of danger at the race track.
Employees stuck in Manama
Actually, Mercedes and McLaren were supposed to carry out valuable development work for the 2026 season today, Saturday, and tomorrow, Sunday. The focus was on the new rain tires and intermediates, which were to be tested on the desert circuit under special conditions.
In order to collect realistic data, it was planned to artificially flood the track using a special irrigation system. For Mercedes, test driver Frederik Vesti, among others, was to be at the wheel to collect important kilometers with the modified test carriers (“mule cars”).
Read more Xpeng X9: Luxury electric van arrives in Germany in June
In an official statement, Pirelli emphasizes that the safety of personnel in such a volatile international situation takes absolute priority over sporting or technical progress.
The tire manufacturer confirms that all Pirelli employees as well as the team members of Mercedes and McLaren are currently safe. The employees will remain in their hotels in the capital Manama for the time being, while work is already underway at full speed in the background to ensure a safe departure. The goal is to bring the personnel back to Italy and England as quickly as possible.
The cancellation comes at a very inconvenient time, as Formula 1 is just before the season opener in Australia. Many team members and logistics experts normally use the Gulf region as a hub for their journey to Melbourne. Due to the closure of airspaces and the general uncertainty, alternative routes are now being sought.
It cannot be ruled out that current events could have further impacts on the race calendar, especially since Bahrain itself is planned as the fourth round of the season for April 12. The FIA and Formula 1 officials are monitoring the situation closely in order to be able to react to further developments at short notice if necessary.
Read more FIA engine compromise: Fair solution for Mercedes and the Formula 1 rivals?
