The **Gran Turismo** brand has announced the cancellation of the initial competition in the **Gran Turismo World Series**, which was scheduled to occur in Abu Dhabi on March 28th.
The decision to call off this event, originally planned for the **Space42 Arena**, stems from recent geopolitical unrest within the Middle East region.
In a concise statement released **across its social media platforms**, the event’s organising body stated that “the well-being of all individuals participating in our events remains our utmost priority.” Following this cancellation, Gran Turismo indicated that additional information regarding future plans would be disclosed “at the appropriate time.”
Individuals who had already secured entry tickets will receive full compensation, while participants in the online **UAE Time Trial** competition will be provided with further details on subsequent actions over the coming weeks.
Security apprehensions in Abu Dhabi and the wider area emerged after the United States and Israel initiated strikes against Iran on February 28th. These strikes reportedly provoked retaliatory actions from Iran, which allegedly impacted various nations in the Middle East, **including Abu Dhabi**, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
The Gran Turismo World Series represents one of several gatherings in the locale that have been either cancelled or rescheduled in recent periods. On March 3rd, **the FIA** declared the postponement of the **World Endurance Championship**’s initial race, which was originally intended to run from March 26th to 28th in Qatar.
What Lies Ahead for Gran Turismo Esports?
With the inaugural leg of the World Series now called off, the focus within the Gran Turismo community shifts towards the second stage scheduled for May 23rd in Milan, Italy. Currently, the event coordinators have not yet revealed the venue and date for the third stage.
This year’s World Series season is set to culminate in Tokyo, Japan, between December 5th and 6th, where the victors of both the Manufacturers Cup and Nations Cup will be honoured.
Although the cancellation of the event is disheartening for followers and participants, safeguarding everyone present remains the foremost concern.
The article detailing the Gran Turismo World Series’ initial round being called off originally appeared on Esports Insider.
