Pirelli cancels Bahrain wet tyre test after missile strike

Pirelli cancels Bahrain wet tyre test after missile strike

Pirelli has called off its two‑day wet‑weather tyre test at the Bahrain International Circuit after a missile struck Manama’s Juffair district, about 30 km from the track, raising security concerns.

Why it matters:

• Wet‑tyre data is crucial for 2026 F1 rules; losing two days compresses development and shows geopolitical risk can impact the sport.

The details:

• The test, part of the FIA‑approved 2026 wet‑tyre programme, was to run with mule cars from McLaren and Mercedes.
• All Pirelli staff in Manama are safe and are being flown back to Italy and the UK.
• The missile hit Juffair, prompting an immediate halt.
• Pirelli will mitigate the loss with accelerated testing at other venues later in the year.
• FIA and FOM say the Bahrain and Saudi Grands Prix remain on schedule.

What's next:

• Teams will lean on existing tyre data and may tweak development plans.
• F1 officials are reviewing travel logistics for upcoming races to avoid similar disruptions.
• Ongoing assessment of Middle‑East tensions will guide any future calendar changes, with safety as the priority.