The Australian Grand Prix is set to go ahead as planned despite widespread travel disruption caused by US-Israeli strikes on Iran, with race organisers confident the Formula 1 season opener will not be affected.

Australian Formula 1 chief Travis Auld said on Monday that while the situation in the Middle East has forced significant logistical reshuffling, all personnel are expected to arrive in time for this weekend’s race in Melbourne.

Many drivers, engineers, team principals and support staff are based in Europe, with major Middle Eastern hubs such as Dubai, Bahrain and Doha typically serving as key transit points en route to Australia. The recent escalation has triggered the most significant disruption to global air travel since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Auld said he had spoken with senior Formula 1 officials earlier in the day and was reassured that contingency plans were in place.

“The last 48 hours have required some reshuffling of flights. That is largely Formula 1’s responsibility,” Auld told reporters. “They take charge of the teams and the drivers and all the personnel required to make this event happen, and there’s quite a number of them.

“My understanding from talking to them this morning is that’s all now been locked in. Everyone will be here ready for the race and, for fans, they won’t notice any difference.”

He added that while some drivers and team members are already in Australia, many others based in the UK and across Europe had to make alternative travel arrangements.

“They’ve just had to find another way. That’s been a process for them, and I’m sure it’s been a lot of work on their behalf,” Auld said.

Speaking separately to Channel Nine, Auld estimated that close to 1,000 F1 staff were forced to rearrange their flights. Around 500 of those travelling from Europe are reportedly set to arrive on three chartered planes arranged to bypass affected airspace.

“All the freight is here and ready to go,” he added, confirming that the cars are already at Albert Park and prepared to be unloaded into team garages. “We’re in a space where we’re really confident there will be no impact.”

After Melbourne, Formula 1 travels to China and Japan for rounds two and three, both of which are expected to proceed without disruption. However, questions remain over the fourth and fifth races of the season in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, scheduled for mid-April.

An F1 spokesperson said the organisation continues to monitor developments closely.

“Our next three races are in Australia, China and Japan and not in the Middle East – those races are not for a number of weeks,” the spokesperson said. “As always, we closely monitor any situation like this and work closely with relevant authorities.”

The Australian Grand Prix, which regularly draws more than 450,000 spectators across the weekend, will mark the debut of sweeping new technical regulations. The overhaul of engine and chassis rules is designed to increase overtaking opportunities and enhance the sport’s environmental sustainability.

Drivers tested the changes during pre-season running in Bahrain, offering a mixed response to the new package.

Reigning world champion Lando Norris will begin his title defence in Melbourne, while the race will also mark the first appearance of the new Cadillac team, featuring experienced duo Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez behind the wheel.