Decision Deadline Approaches for Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix in F1
Uncertainty Over Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix
The final two races of the Formula 1 season, scheduled in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, remain uncertain as the sport awaits a decision on whether these events will proceed.
Earlier this year, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix were cancelled due to conflicts in the Middle East. Malaysia stepped in at short notice to host the Bahrain race, which was held recently.
The Qatar Grand Prix is planned for November 29, followed by the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 6. Safety concerns for drivers, team staff, and fans have been raised amid ongoing regional instability. Imola in Italy has been suggested as a possible substitute venue, but no confirmation has been made.
Deadline Set for Final Decision
According to GPblog, the choice regarding the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races will be made after the US elections. Imola reportedly has a deadline of November 9 to learn if it will host the last race of the 2026 season.
“Formula 1 teams had been assured behind the scenes that they would not have to travel to Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Instead, the season would conclude at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola. The teams have also already booked hotel rooms in the Italian region.”
Despite tensions, the 2026 calendar remains unchanged so far because cancelling Middle Eastern races could cause significant financial losses for commercial rights holders.
FIA's Position on the Middle East Double-Header
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem recently stated the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are expected to continue as planned. He emphasized that the safety of all involved is the top priority.
“[The FIA has] common sense here that we will never take our staff or drivers or any officials to a place where we feel it is risky - no way. Yeah, [I feel] fine [about these countries hosting a race]. You think I would leave them there and I'm here now with you [if it was dangerous]? You have to be sensible in this.”“What you read in the media is actually different than what we have there. What we read and see on TV, we say, 'Where is it?' We don't have that, really. Otherwise why would I stay there? Why would I leave my family there? Does this say that there is nothing that is going to happen? I can't predict this. I can only tell you today that there is nothing and the two races are going to happen.”
Upcoming Race
The 2026 Formula 1 season continues this weekend with the Mexican Grand Prix, held at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.
