Formula 1 and the FIA are actively exploring options to add at least one Grand Prix to this season’s calendar, following the necessary postponement of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia last month. Both events remain potential candidates for a return later in the year.

Amidst the escalating regional tensions and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, F1 and the FIA were compelled to announce that the two Grands Prix scheduled for April “cannot go ahead.” This carefully worded statement, however, leaves open the possibility for these races to be rescheduled for a later slot in the season.

Initially, concerns were raised regarding the feasibility of accommodating alternative races due to the already congested calendar, particularly after the summer break, which features 11 Grands Prix across 16 weekends.

However, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali recently expressed optimism, stating, “we may recover one.” Reports indicate that the weekend of October 2-4, strategically placed between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, is currently under consideration.

From the FIA’s perspective, Bahrain appears to be the more favorable option, primarily due to logistical advantages, as much of the freight remains in the country. Nevertheless, officials in Saudi Arabia are reportedly engaging in robust lobbying efforts with F1 for the reinstatement of their race.

Furthermore, discussions are underway regarding a potential quadruple-header to conclude the season, a challenging but not entirely unfeasible proposition. This scenario could see Saudi Arabia positioned between the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, which already follow the Las Vegas event. Under this arrangement, Abu Dhabi would then take place a week later, on December 13.

While logistically viable, such an intense schedule raises significant concerns about the human resources aspect, potentially pushing team personnel to their limits at the culmination of an already demanding season.

Another crucial consideration involves fans who have already made travel and accommodation arrangements for the Abu Dhabi race on the first weekend of December. Contractually, the Yas Marina Circuit event is mandated to conclude the season, which presents a hurdle for Saudi Arabia occupying the December 13 slot.

Naturally, the overarching prerequisite for the return of either Bahrain or Saudi Arabia is a resolution to the ongoing regional conflict. Sources with intimate knowledge of the situation suggest that a definitive decision is not required until mid-August, allowing ample time for developments.

It is understood that, contrary to initial assumptions, the substantial race fees for both Grands Prix, amounting to approximately £100 million, have already been remitted to F1. These fees are typically paid in advance and were processed before the decision for postponement was made. This means that both nations have invested significantly, awaiting the opportunity to host these prestigious events.

Should the regional conflict unfortunately persist, the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi could also face cancellation, potentially reducing the calendar to 20 races, with Las Vegas serving as the season finale.

All potential avenues are being rigorously explored. Even Silverstone recently offered to host a race towards the end of the year. However, due to climatic conditions in Europe at that time, this and other European venues are realistically not viable options.

Remotely, Turkey, which is set to rejoin the calendar full-time next season with a five-year deal extending to 2031, could potentially fill the slot between Azerbaijan and Singapore. While logistically sensible, the complexities involved in such a late change make it a challenging prospect.

At this juncture, F1 and the FIA possess various options, but numerous intricate pieces of this global puzzle must align before a clear path forward emerges.