Formula 1 to decide on Qatar and Abu Dhabi races by mid-September

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has announced that a decision regarding the 2026 Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix will be made after mid-September. The uncertainty stems from ongoing instability in the Middle East, which has already impacted the season, including the cancellation of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Domenicali stated that if the situation in the Middle East deteriorates, the season will conclude in Europe. While no official agreements are in place, Imola has been mentioned as a potential candidate for a season finale. The organization is monitoring the response of other series, such as the WEC World Endurance Championship, which has already moved its end-of-season races from the Middle East to Europe.

Beyond security concerns, the disruptions have contributed to a revenue decline for Liberty Media. Consequently, F1 is looking toward growing markets in Europe and the Far East, while also noting that negotiations for future races in Africa are progressing well.