The decision to cull the Russian Grand Prix has left F1 bosses desperately scrambling to fill a £40million void.
The race was due to be held in Sochi on September 25, but was removed from the F1 schedule this week amid Russia declaring war on Ukraine.
After four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel vowed not to race in Russia in protest, t he FIA released a statement on Friday confirming the race had been cancelled : "The FIA Formula 1 World Championship visits countries all over the world with a positive vision to unite people, bringing nations together.
"We are watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation.
"On Thursday evening Formula 1, the FIA, and the teams discussed the position of our sport, and the conclusion is, including the view of all relevant stakeholders, that it is impossible to hold the Russian Grand Prix in the current circumstances."
Rather than reduce the record-breaking schedule from 23 races to 22 though, the FIA are now seeking a replacement venue to avoid potential losses of £40 million.
And according to Sportsmail, the Qatari capital Doha, which held its inaugural event last year and is due to return in 2023, is believed to be one of the frontrunners.
Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are also both in contention to host a second race, unsurprising given their financial power, but such a move may be viewed as contrary given the ethical debates already provoked by holding F1 events in the Middle East.
Russian sport has already taken several hits this week with UEFA opting to move the 2022 Champions League final from the original venue of Saint Petersburg to Paris.
Poland have also pledged to forfeit their upcoming World Cup qualifier with Russia, a move publicly backed by national team captain Robert Lewandoswki, while the WBO have confirmed they are considering proposals to remove all Russian boxers from their world rankings.
The Grand Prix in Sochi first took place in 2014, and has become notable for the manner in which Mercedes have dominated at the circuit.
Lewis Hamilton has won the race five times, including in 2021 after adverse weather scuppered the chances of Lando Norris, Valtteri Bottas twice, and Nico Rosberg once - all whilst representing the Silver Arrows.
