F1 event cancelled because of Bahrain strikes as statement issued

F1 have been forced to cancel a two-day Pirelli tyre test in Bahrain due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

Both Mercedes and McLaren had provided mule cars for Pirelli to conduct testing ahead of the opening Grand Prix of the season next week in Melbourne.

The two-day test was expected to feature wet-weather running by artificially wetting the track to gather crucial data for both Pirelli and F1 teams.

However, the test which was to be at the Sakhir International circuit, has now been cancelled indefinitely due to missile strikes in the region.

It has been confirmed that all Pirelli and F1 staff on site in Bahrain are safe in their hotels following the news that the US and Israel have launched 'major combat operations' against Iran.

Footage via the BBC shows debris fired into the air after a retaliation strike by Iran on the Bahrain National Communication Centre , which is only 15 miles from the circuit.

Following the news, Pirelli have issued a statement on the situation via RacingNews365.

The statement began: "The two days of development tests for wet-weather compounds, scheduled for today and tomorrow at the Bahrain International Circuit, have been cancelled for security reasons following the evolving international situation.

F1 testing in Bahrain earlier this month (credit: getty)

"All Pirelli personnel currently in Manama are safe in their hotels. The company is working to ensure their safety and arrange their return to Italy and the UK as soon as possible."

The reason the planned wet weather test was due to take place in Bahrain, was due to the high tyre degradation the circuit offers, despite it being one of the driest places on earth.

The Bahrain Grand Prix is currently scheduled for April 12th, with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah just a week later.

F1 have confirmed they are monitoring the situation and working closely with relevant authorities to ensure the safest measures are taken.