FIA President defends status of Middle East Formula 1 races

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has stated that the governing body is not currently planning to cancel the final two Formula 1 races of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, despite regional security concerns. While the season is still scheduled to conclude with the Qatar Grand Prix on November 29 and the Abu Dhabi finale on December 6, officials are monitoring the situation closely.

Ben Sulayem emphasized that the safety of drivers, teams, and staff is the primary priority, noting, “Are we going to allow our people, our staff, the drivers or the teams to go at risk? No, of course not. We will not.” He added that the FIA must remain in communication with local governments and promoters before making definitive decisions.

Earlier in the season, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was called off, and the Bahrain Grand Prix was rescheduled to take place in Malaysia. If the Middle Eastern events are ultimately canceled, the Imola circuit in Italy is considered a likely alternative venue for the season finale.