Global’s Up To Speed podcast has explored the consequences of cancelled Formula One races, focusing on the effect on fans, finances and the sport itself.
The latest episode hears David Coulthard, Will Buxton and Naomi Schiff discuss the removal of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix from the 2026 calendar due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Naomi Schiff confirms the scale of disruption, saying: “Both Bahrain and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix have been cancelled.” She adds: “Safety is the utmost priority, and motorsport should never come first in those scenarios.”
The discussion moves to the financial pressure facing Formula One if races need to be rescheduled. Will Buxton highlights the challenges of fitting additional events into an already busy calendar, saying: “Cash is king. If they have to squeeze it in… people are gonna have to work six weeks in a row.”
David Coulthard reflects on the commercial realities behind the sport, explaining: “The business of Formula One is racing… it’s putting on a show.”
The podcast also considers the wider impact on audiences and the sport’s future. David says: “The losers clearly are… the fans, the sport as a whole,” while Will adds: “The big losers here are the kids.”
Despite the cancellations, there remains uncertainty over whether the races could return later in the year. Will suggests: “The door is ajar to it possibly being done a little bit further down the road.”
David agrees there is still a possibility, noting: “I wouldn’t write it off yet… there could still be an opportunity later in the year.”
