Despite the Middle East being a big market for performance and luxury car manufacturers, Ferrari, Bentley, and Maserati have halted deliveries amid the ongoing military conflict between the U.S. and Israel against Iran.
The war has led to supply disruptions across the world, as multiple vessels were destroyed in the Strait of Hormuz. Apart from essential items like oil, it appears that the war has now begun to affect luxury car supplies.
Bloomberg reported that although Ferrari transported a few cars through air transport, the Italian automaker will pause deliveries in the Middle East until the situation permits it to restart supplies.
Stellantis N.V.’s Maserati also decided to pull back on vehicle deliveries in the Middle East until it is safe to transport cars again. In a statement, the company confirmed it was pausing supplies due to “logistical challenges and safety concerns.”
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Bentley has also joined the club by pausing its Middle East supplies. The company’s CEO, Frank-Steffen Walliser, revealed that although the war hasn’t impacted vehicle production yet, he hinted at a drop in demand in the Middle East. He said:
“We don’t have an impact from a production side but, for sure, people in the Middle East have other thoughts than looking for a new Bentley at the moment.”
Middle East Conflict Disrupts F1 Calendar
Not only fast cars, but the war around the Middle East region has also affected the premier class of motorsports – Formula 1. MotorBiscuit reported that two Grands Prix were scheduled to take place next month in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. But with no signs of the military conflict de-escalating, both races have been cancelled.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said in a statement:
“While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East. I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion. We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem added:
“The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind. We continue to hope for calm, safety and a swift return to stability in the region, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by these recent events.
“Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are incredibly important to the ecosystem of our racing season, and I look forward to returning to both as soon as circumstances allow. My sincere thanks to the promoters, our partners, and our colleagues across the championship for the collaborative and constructive approach that has led to this decision.”
