F1 plans to finish the season in the Middle East

Formula 1 officials are continuing with their plan to hold the last two races of the season in the Middle East. The deadline for moving one of the season-ending races to Italy has passed. Imola was informed that the track will not be used at the end of the 2026 season.

Because of the conflict in the region, F1 had to cancel the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races that were planned for April. Tensions throughout the year have raised questions about the safety of the final two races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. For this reason, Imola had been prepared as a backup plan to host the season-ending race in the first week of December.

The Qatar Grand Prix will take place between 27 and 29 November, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix between 4 and 6 December. Together with the Las Vegas Grand Prix, held between 20 and 22 November, these races form a three-race series. F1 chief Stefano Domenicali said the final races will be held at the planned circuits unless the situation deteriorates significantly. Domenicali also stressed that everyone's safety is the priority.

Teams and drivers have repeatedly said they trust F1's decision on this matter. It is reported that management will not hesitate to cancel the races if the situation changes. The Bahrain Grand Prix has been added to the calendar by being held in Malaysia in October, so the season will be completed with one fewer race than the planned 24-race calendar. There are no signs from the teams of an attitude outside the plan.