Formula 1 maintains Qatar and Abu Dhabi races despite Middle East tensions

Formula 1 and Formula 2 organizers are maintaining their plans to conclude the 2026 season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, despite escalating military tensions in the Middle East. Formula 2 CEO Bruno Michel has insisted that the championship will finish in the region as scheduled, following the lead of Formula 1.

However, contingency planning is intensifying due to regional instability, including missile strikes in Saudi Arabia and warnings from Qatari leadership to prepare for worst-case scenarios. The Imola circuit in Italy has been designated as a primary 'Plan B' to host the season finale in Europe should force majeure occur.

While F1 leadership aims to monitor the situation alongside the FIA and local authorities, team bosses have requested a definitive decision on the venue by mid-October to manage logistical complexities. Some reports suggest a final decision regarding the Middle Eastern rounds could be delayed as late as mid-November.