How sport is being disrupted by the US-Israel war with Iran

"The 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup kicked off on Sunday a day after the USA and Israel began launching airstrikes on Iran, but also a long way away from the conflict, in Australia. On Day 2 of the tournament, on Monday, all eyes were on the Iranian team, one of 12 taking part in the Women's Asia Cup. The Iranian women took to the pitch as scheduled and there appeared to be no outward sign of the conflict raging in their homeland."

"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. As always, we closely monitor any situation like this and work closely with relevant authorities."

"Travis Auld, managing director of the Australian Grand Prix, estimated that the number of people linked to the race who had to make alternative plans was around 1,000. He said instead of flying to Australia via Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha, many had opted for Singapore or Hong Kong."

The escalating US-Israel conflict with Iran is disrupting sporting events across the region and beyond. The 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup proceeded as scheduled in Australia with Iran's women's team competing without visible disruption, though South Korea defeated them 3-0. Formula 1 officials confirmed the Australian Grand Prix will proceed on March 8, 2026, as scheduled races are located in Australia, China, and Japan rather than the Middle East. However, the conflict necessitated significant travel rearrangements, with approximately 1,000 people associated with the Grand Prix altering their routes to avoid Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, instead routing through Singapore or Hong Kong. Officials continue monitoring the situation while coordinating with relevant authorities.

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