F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has addressed fans of the championship in a heartfelt message following the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix being called off.

Whilst F1 did not use the word ‘cancelled’ in the statement it issued to confirm the anticipated news, the likelihood that either will be rescheduled is very low — given the logistical challenges and already packed calendar — so should not be viewed as a postponement at this stage. 

With the situation in the Middle East not improving enough, F1 and the FIA had no choice but to take decisive action, despite the month until their originally planned dates.

The message from the twin bodies has been clear: Safety must come first. Following the announcement that the championship would not travel to either nation in April, Domenicali explained the decision and the reasons behind it to Formula 1.

“An unfortunate situation, and a decision that has to be taken considering exactly what is going on in that region,” he stated.

“And, as always, when you have to take these actions, it’s not easy; you have to think of the bigger picture.

“But let me, first of all, thank the FIA and the promoters, who completely understood the situation. We took a joint decision together for the benefit of the sport.”

The Italian took the opportunity to address the fans of F1, particularly those in the affected Middle Eastern countries.

“For the fans who are always following us: First of all, be safe. We are thinking of you. We want to come back as soon as possible,” he added.

“We feel the love and the passion in both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia that we have, and stay tuned and follow us — we’ll come back soon.”