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Several major international sporting events in the Middle East have been reshuffled as regional tensions linked to the US-Israeli war with Iran continue to impact the global sporting calendar.
On Sunday, Formula One confirmed that next month’s races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia will not take place in April due to safety concerns.
“While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East,” said Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so.”
Motorcycle racing has also been affected. Qatar’s MotoGP race, originally scheduled for 10-12 April at Lusail International Circuit, has been postponed and rescheduled for 6-8 November.
“Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved in MotoGP, as well as ensuring that every Grand Prix is delivered to the highest possible standard,” said MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.
The change has also forced adjustments elsewhere on the calendar, with races in Portugal and Valencia moved to accommodate the revised schedule.
Finalissima uncertainty
The uncertainty has also cast doubt over the much anticipated Finalissima, the intercontinental clash between European champions Spain and South American champions Argentina.
The match is scheduled for 27 March at Lusail Stadium as part of the six-match Qatar Football Festival 2026, which is expected to bring some of the world’s biggest football stars to Doha.
With the tournament less than two weeks away, organisers are closely monitoring the situation and considering possible options.
Qatar Stars League resumes
Despite the disruption to international events, domestic football in Qatar has returned to the pitch. The Qatar Stars League resumed play last week with its Week 18 fixtures.
The return of the country’s top-flight competition offers a positive note for sport in Qatar, even as international events continue to adjust to the evolving regional situation.