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Australian Grand Prix travel chaos forces last-minute changes for F1 teams

Recent events have forced some F1 teams to change their travel plans ahead of the Australian GP

Sheona Mountford F1 Journalist

Accredited motorsport journalist working in F1 since 2024.

Wednesday 4 March 2026 19:00

GPFans has learned that several Formula 1 teams have had to make urgent alterations to their travel arrangements before the opening round of the season, the Australian Grand Prix, as a result of the developing situation in the Middle East.

On Saturday, the United States and Israel initiated airstrikes against Iran, which responded by carrying out missile attacks on American military bases in neighboring nations.

Among the countries impacted were Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, both home to major international airport hubs. As a result, several F1 teams have been compelled to reroute their travel plans at short notice to steer clear of the affected regions.

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It is understood that teams such as Alpine have re-routed flights for some members and that McLaren are evaluating the impact of travel across the team.

F1 and FIA release statements

A statement from Pirelli provided to GPFans read: "The two days of development tests for wet-weather compounds, scheduled for today and tomorrow at the Bahrain International Circuit, have been cancelled for security reasons following the evolving international situation.

"All Pirelli personnel currently in Manama are safe in their hotels. The company is working to ensure their safety and arrange their return to Italy and the UK as soon as possible.”

An F1 spokesperson also released a statement, which read: "Our next three races are in Australia, China and Japan not in the Middle East – those races are not for a number of weeks.

"As always we closely monitor any situation like this and work closely with relevant authorities."

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem became the most recent figure to speak on unfolding events in the Middle East, and also added: "As President of the FIA, my thoughts are with all those affected by the recent events in the Middle East. We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and stand with the families and communities impacted.

"At this moment of uncertainty, we hope for calm, safety, and a swift return to stability. Dialogue and the protection of civilians must remain priorities.

"We are in close contact with our Member Clubs, championship promoters, teams, and colleagues on the ground as we monitor developments carefully and responsibly.

"Safety and wellbeing will guide our decisions as we assess the forthcoming events scheduled there for the FIA World Endurance Championship and the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. Our organisation is built on unity and shared purpose. That unity matters now more than ever."

Australian Grand Prix