Conflict in the Middle East has impacted F1 teams and fans travelling to Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix, which kicks off at Albert Park on 5 March 2026.
The 2025 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix attracted more than 465,000 fans – a massive increase of more than 140,000 fans on the 2019 event – and this year was predicted to be even bigger.
But news.com.au reports around 1000 race staff have been scrambling to change their travel plans due to many planes operated by Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways being grounded.
Accommodation Australia chief executive James Goodwin has also told the Australian Financial Review that Melbourne hotels have experienced a surge in no-shows since the weekend.
“The concern with the no shows is that with the extra demand for accommodation, particularly at those properties near major airports, the hotels are unable to accommodate those new guests needing a place to stay,” Goodwin said.
“Melbourne is the biggest worry for the sector. The Formula 1 is one of the biggest events in the calendar, if not the biggest for the year. We know that the crews and the teams are arriving and … everyone is confident that the race will go on.”
“The concern, though, is whether all those spectators will still be able to get here, and that will be really concerning if we can’t meet those expected numbers. We’re very concerned because it is such a big event for Melbourne.”
Australian Grand Prix CEO Travis Auld said the 2026 season opener will proceed as planned despite the escalating conflict affecting global travel.
“Everyone will be here by Wednesday. Everyone who needs to be here will be here, there will be no impact on the race or the event in any way,” he said.
In a statement, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “As President of the FIA, my thoughts are with all those affected by the recent events in the Middle East. We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and stand with the families and communities impacted.
“At this moment of uncertainty, we hope for calm, safety, and a swift return to stability. Dialogue and the protection of civilians must remain priorities.
“We are in close contact with our member clubs, championship promoters, teams and colleagues on the ground as we monitor developments carefully and responsibly.
“Safety and wellbeing will guide our decisions as we assess the forthcoming events scheduled there for the FIA World Endurance Championship and the FIA Formula One World Championship. Our organisation is built on unity and shared purpose. That unity matters now more than ever.”
Australian Grand Prix sells out in record time
Lack of flights haven’t stopped the Australian Grand Prix selling out across Friday, Saturday and Sunday in record time.
Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos announced tickets are now exhausted in the
earliest three-day sell-out in the event’s history.
Fans are still able to purchase tickets for Thursday, with a packed schedule on track featuring Supercars, Porshe
Carrera Cup, an F1 car demonstration and Brabham celebration.
“The sell‐out of Friday, Saturday and Sunday sessions is a phenomenal result and a testament to the global appeal
of the Australian Grand Prix,” Dimopoulos said.
“”This event not only brings elite racing to Melbourne but also delivers millions into our visitor economy, showcasing
Victoria on the world stage.”
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