Why Formula 1 abandoned Bahrain as millions hang on Qatar and Abu Dhabi decision

AI Summary

Formula 1 has abandoned plans to hold the Bahrain Grand Prix this season due to complex security assessments. This decision may have significant sporting and financial implications for the championship, with focus shifting to Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

Formula 1 has officially abandoned hopes of staging the Bahrain Grand Prix later this season, but the decision goes far beyond simply removing one race from the calendar. It is the first major consequence of an increasingly complex security assessment that could yet have enormous sporting and financial implications for the championship.