F1 Plans to Finish Season in Middle East Despite Ongoing War
F1 canceled the Saudi GP earlier this year.
Formula One (F1) has decided to host its concluding two races of the 2026 season in the Middle East, despite the ongoing U.S.–Iran conflict. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali previously mentioned in July that Imola, Italy, could serve as a backup choice if the final two races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi had to be cancelled. Several sources say that the drivers and teams are backing the Middle Eastern finish, citing no recent negative developments in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
The region still experiences ongoing conflict, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where Houthi rebels have been conducting attacks, including a recent attempted missile strike. However, the region has also hosted numerous sporting events, such as a fight between Canelo Alvarez and Christian Mbilli and the WWE Crown Jewel event, with MotoGP also staging a race in Qatar.
The U.S. government has issued security alerts for travelers, including in Abu Dhabi and Qatar. The 2026 F1 season will conclude with three remaining race weekends: Las Vegas (Nov. 19–21), Qatar (Nov. 27–29), and Abu Dhabi (Dec. 4–6). This would result in 23 races for the season, down from the originally planned 24. Races in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain were initially cancelled but the Bahrain event was relocated to Malaysia in October.
With Kimi Antilainen having secured the drivers' championship and Mercedes clinching the constructors' title earlier this month, there is little remaining excitement. F1 will also kick off its 2027 season in the Middle East, announcing plans for a 24-race schedule starting in Bahrain from March 12–14, followed by Saudi Arabia the following week.
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