An important part of the Australian GP has been impacted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Qatar Airways, the official airline partner of Formula 1, has cancelled all hospitality events at this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix due to the Middle East crisis. The airline informed guests that hosting celebrations at the grand prix would be inappropriate given the situation in the Middle East. Countries like Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have faced missile attacks from Iran amidst the conflict with the United States and Israel. If safety concerns persist, F1 may face a month without races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, affecting the season. Despite Australia not being directly impacted, Qatar Airways has withdrawn all hospitality, including a VIP dinner and F1 Paddock Club passes. The decision was made “in light of the situation and out of respect for those impacted” by the crisis in the Middle East.
