The Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix are still scheduled to conclude the 2026 Formula 1 season, despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Middle East. Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali has confirmed that both races remain on the calendar, although a final decision on whether they can go ahead as planned is expected in mid-September.
The Qatar Grand Prix is currently scheduled for November 29, with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix set to bring the season to a close on December 6 at Yas Marina Circuit. While recent geopolitical developments have raised questions about the final rounds of the championship, Formula 1 says there are no immediate changes to the schedule.
Earlier cancellations sparked fresh concerns
Questions about the final races emerged after the championship was forced to revise its calendar earlier this season.
The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were cancelled following the escalation of regional tensions involving Iran. To maintain its planned number of races, Formula 1 rescheduled Bahrain for October 4 at Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit, with support from the Bahraini government for the relocation.
Those changes naturally led fans, teams and organisers to wonder whether the remaining Middle East races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi could also face disruption. However, Formula 1 has continued preparations for both events while closely monitoring the situation.
Formula 1 will review the situation in September
Speaking to reporters, Domenicali said Formula 1 does not want to rush into making changes before having a clearer understanding of developments in the region.
According to him, mid-September will be the key period for assessing whether the championship can finish the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi as originally planned. Until then, both races remain officially confirmed.
The Formula 1 chief also highlighted the strong interest from fans. Tickets for both Grands Prix have already sold out, reflecting continued excitement for the season finale despite the uncertainty surrounding the calendar.
Europe remains the backup option
Although Formula 1 is planning for the races to go ahead, organisers are also considering alternative scenarios should the situation change.
Instead of adding another long-haul destination, the championship would most likely complete the season in Europe if the Middle East races cannot be staged. Keeping the finale in Europe would simplify travel, logistics and operational planning for teams after a demanding season.
Among the circuits being linked with a possible return is Imola, the historic Italian venue that was dropped from this year’s Formula 1 calendar. While Formula 1 has not officially named a replacement venue, Imola is widely regarded as one of the strongest options because it already meets Formula 1’s operational requirements and has extensive experience hosting Grands Prix.
Other championships have already adjusted their schedules
Formula 1 is not the only international motorsport series responding to the regional situation.
The World Endurance Championship (WEC) has already revised its calendar by relocating its planned races from Qatar and Bahrain to Europe. The championship is now expected to conclude with races at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya and Monza during October and November.
These changes highlight the wider challenges facing global motorsport organisers as they continue balancing sporting commitments with safety considerations.
Las Vegas ruled out as an alternative
Some fans have suggested that Formula 1 could add another race in Las Vegas if the Middle East events are cancelled. However, Domenicali dismissed that possibility.
He explained that the colder night-time conditions in Las Vegas during late November create additional challenges for teams and tyre performance. He also indicated that Formula 1 wants to preserve the unique appeal of the existing Las Vegas Grand Prix rather than staging a second event there.
Focus also turns to the 2027 Formula 1 calendar
Alongside plans for the remainder of the 2026 season, Formula 1 is continuing work on its 2027 calendar.
Domenicali said the schedule is expected to be announced later this year, with the championship remaining committed to hosting 24 races.
He also revealed that Portugal and Turkey are expected to return to the calendar in 2027. At the same time, Formula 1 continues discussions with potential hosts in Africa while monitoring growing interest from markets across Asia and South America.
Regarding China, Domenicali said demand for Formula 1 continues to increase, but the championship currently plans to maintain a single Chinese Grand Prix rather than introducing a second race.
Preparations continue for the season finale
For now, Formula 1’s focus remains on ending the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi as scheduled.
Teams, organisers and fans will receive greater clarity when Formula 1 completes its review in September. Until then, preparations for both Grands Prix will continue, with organisers hoping the championship can conclude with its traditional Middle East double-header.
Unless circumstances change in the coming weeks, the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races remain an important part of the 2026 Formula 1 calendar and are expected to deliver another exciting conclusion to the season.
