Remain optimistic about Gulf race comeback despite financial blow.

      Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane states that Formula 1 is still aiming to reschedule the canceled Grand Prix races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, despite increasing logistical and financial challenges. "We are monitoring the calendar and remain optimistic that there may be an opportunity to reschedule one or both events later this year," he shared. "At this point, we don't have any updates. Clearly, the situation in the Middle East must stabilize before that can happen. Should it come together, we could see a very hectic conclusion to the season."

      His remarks come amid increasing pressure, especially from Saudi Arabia, to find availability in the calendar, resonating with recent statements from Dutch analyst Robert Doornbos that suggest Jeddah might make a comeback in December. However, Permane acknowledges that the financial repercussions of the cancellations are already being felt throughout the grid. "The absence of two Grand Prix events has a considerable effect on the teams’ financial plans," he noted. "On one hand, if these races are canceled, teams will save money since they won't need to send personnel anywhere. There will be no costs for flights, accommodations, or transportation of cargo. However, the overall financial impact will still result in losses, which is concerning."

      Indeed, a report from Auto Motor und Sport indicates that losing Bahrain and Saudi Arabia—some of the highest-paying events—could subtract close to 100 million euros from Formula 1’s revenue this year. With approximately half of that amount allocated to teams, the financial blow is expected to reach millions for each team. Simultaneously, increasing fuel prices resulting from the Middle East conflict are placing additional pressure. "We haven't received any specific numbers yet, but costs for the teams will undoubtedly rise later in the season due to escalating fuel expenses," Permane detailed. "Everyone's fuel costs have already gone up, and soon it will be the case for air travel as well. All of these costs will undeniably affect F1 teams since they are included in the budget cap."