Tyre supplier Pirelli has cancelled a scheduled two-day Formula 1 wet-weather tyre development test at the Bahrain International Circuit due to escalating security concerns amid heightened conflict in the Middle East.

The test, set for February 28 and March 1, 2026, involved Mercedes and McLaren running on the Sakhir track with artificial wetting via sprinklers to evaluate new wet-weather compounds ahead of the 2026 season. Pirelli confirmed the cancellation in a statement, citing the "evolving international situation" as the reason. All personnel from Pirelli, Mercedes, and McLaren involved in the test remain safe in their hotels in Manama, with efforts underway to arrange their safe return to Europe. The company emphasized that the disruption will not impact its operations for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.

The decision follows recent missile strikes in the region, including Iranian claims of targeting a U.S. naval base in Bahrain, as part of broader retaliatory actions tied to U.S.-Israeli operations against Iran. These developments have led to airspace closures across parts of the Middle East, complicating travel and logistics. The cancellation prioritizes staff safety while the sport monitors potential wider implications for the upcoming calendar, including races in Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates later in the season.

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Pirelli's role as Formula 1's exclusive tyre supplier since 2011 includes ongoing development work for the major regulation changes in 2026, which feature new car designs and tyre specifications. This test was a critical part of refining wet-weather performance under simulated rain conditions, especially important given the unpredictable nature of weather at various circuits. While the cancellation delays data collection on these compounds, Pirelli has assured teams that alternative arrangements are being considered to minimize effects on preparations.

The incident highlights growing uncertainties for motorsport in geopolitically sensitive regions, with the FIA and Formula One Management closely tracking the situation. No immediate threats have been reported to the Bahrain Grand Prix itself, scheduled as round two or later in the 2026 calendar, but contingency planning remains a priority. As the conflict continues to unfold, the focus for Pirelli and the teams shifts to ensuring personnel safety and maintaining momentum toward the new season despite these unforeseen challenges.

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