FIA boss happy for F1 to race in Middle East, less sure about Dakar Rally

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed his satisfaction with Formula One's plans to stage the final two races of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Meanwhile, his confidence in F1's ability to proceed is less certain for the Dakar Rally, set to take place in Saudi Arabia in January.

Speaking at the opening of a new FIA Remote Operations Centre in Biggin Hill, Ben Sulayem acknowledged concerns about the situation in Saudi Arabia but maintained that the two Gulf races would proceed as scheduled. F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali, who attended the opening but did not speak to reporters, affirmed that the calendar remains confirmed, with races planned for November 29 in Qatar and December 6 in Abu Dhabi.

However, the FIA president remained cautious about the Dakar Rally, noting that local organizers had requested its cancellation due to escalating violence in the region. The rally, traditionally held entirely within Saudi Arabia, has been in doubt following heightened hostilities between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement. Some drivers and team members have reportedly been working on an alternative northern route, but the current itinerary, starting and finishing in Saudi Arabia, has not been ruled out.

Ben Sulayem emphasized that FIA staff and officials would not risk their safety for the Dakar Rally, stating that no decision had been made regarding its cancellation or relocation. He reiterated that the organization would not venture into any location perceived as risky.