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Formula 1 Middle East race uncertainty

Updated 4 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-09-24 18:26 UTC → 2026-09-24 18:30 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The status of the final Formula 1 races in Qatar (November 29) and Abu Dhabi (December 6) remains uncertain due to regional instability involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. While previous disruptions led to the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the rescheduling of the Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has maintained that the safety of drivers, teams, and staff is the primary priority. Formula 1 officials are expected to reach a definitive decision regarding the season finale location by mid-October. If the Middle Eastern events are canceled, the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola has been identified as the primary contingency venue. To prepare for this possibility, organizers in Imola have been given the green light to begin preparations, including the construction of temporary grandstands. Formula 1 is expected to cover the financial risks associated with these preparations to ensure a season finale can be guaranteed. While some have raised concerns regarding December weather in Italy, Audi team principal Mattia Binotto suggested that temperatures in Imola are manageable compared to other late-season venues. Driver Lewis Hamilton has expressed support for proceeding with the planned Middle East races, stating, ‘I personally want to go. I love going to the Middle East,’ though he noted he lacks full information regarding exact risk levels and stated he trusts CEO Stefano Domenicali to make the correct decision for the sport.

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