Motorsport events face cancellations and relocations due to Middle East instability

Ongoing regional conflict in the Middle East is causing significant disruptions to the international motorsport calendar. The FIA has cancelled Rally Saudi Arabia, which was scheduled to be the final round of the World Rally Championship in Jeddah this November.

Major endurance racing is also being relocated. Organisers Creventic have moved the Michelin 24H Dubai from the Dubai Autodrome to Kyalami in South Africa, citing uncertainty in the Gulf region and the resulting impact on logistics and transport costs. Similarly, the Asian Le Mans Series has moved its 2026/27 campaign to Europe.

The future of the 2026 Formula 1 season finale remains uncertain. While plans currently include the Qatar Grand Prix in late November and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December, a final decision is expected by the end of September. Imola, Italy, has been identified as a contingency venue to host the season finale should instability force the cancellation of the Middle Eastern races.