The Middle East conflict triggered by the United States and Israel against Iran keeps Formula 1 on alert, as it will begin its season in Melbourne in less than a week. Australia is obviously not involved in the geopolitical tensions that have flared up off the Persian Gulf, but from a logistical point of view, the transfer of materials and personnel is becoming quite complicated: the closure of the United Arab Emirates airspace, essential for allowing those arriving from Europe to reach Melbourne, is the main problem.
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No plans for cancellation
Formula 1 and the FIA continue to monitor the situation closely with local authorities and organizers although, according to what has been learned by FormulaPassion.it, at the moment there is no fear or hypothesis of cancellation for either the Australian Grand Prix or the subsequent two events in China and Japan.
The logistical issue remains under discussion, not only for Formula 1 but also for F2 and F3 which will take part in the event. For Formula 2 in particular, there seem to be additional difficulties in the departure of some personnel and material from Barcelona, where the last pre-season tests took place before the debut at Albert Park.
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Nevertheless, alternative solutions for reaching Melbourne without passing through the United Arab Emirates are being considered, given also the still current restrictions for flying over Russia. Passing through South America seems to be the best option at the moment, but the alternative of a stopover in Johannesburg, South Africa, is also being evaluated. Both options are however complex, expensive, and require a total reorganization of the initially planned itineraries.
Pirelli tests in Bahrain cancelled
In the meantime, Pirelli, which was ready to carry out some wet tire tests in Sakhir with Mercedes and McLaren, has cancelled the session scheduled for today and tomorrow. The Italian supplier has made it known that all personnel have returned to the hotel and are safe; work is underway to organize their return to Italy and England as soon as possible.
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