Formula One has confirmed plans to conclude the 2026 season in the Middle East, with the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix set to proceed as scheduled despite ongoing security concerns linked to the regional conflict.
The decision, announced on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, means the sport has abandoned contingency plans that would have seen Italy’s Imola circuit replace one of the final races if conditions in the Gulf deteriorated.
Formula One officials informed organisers at Imola that the historic Italian circuit would no longer be required as a backup venue, signalling renewed confidence in holding the championship’s final two rounds in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
According to Reuters, all 11 Formula One teams supported the decision, although the sport’s management has maintained that safety considerations could still force a change if the security situation worsens.
Qatar to host penultimate race
The Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled for November 27–29 at the Lusail International Circuit, with the main race taking place on November 29.
The championship will then move to the United Arab Emirates for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, scheduled for December 4–6 at the Yas Marina Circuit.
The two events will follow the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which takes place from November 19–21, completing a three-race closing stretch.
The decision comes after months of uncertainty surrounding the Middle East’s security situation, particularly following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran and the United States.
Earlier in the season, Formula One was forced to cancel the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix because of security concerns. The disruption prompted organisers to explore alternative venues to protect the championship calendar.
Imola contingency plan abandoned
Italy’s Imola circuit had emerged as the leading alternative venue should Qatar or Abu Dhabi become unsuitable.
Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali had previously indicated that the championship could finish in Europe if the situation in the Middle East failed to improve.
However, the latest decision means Imola organisers can stop preparations for a possible replacement event.
The development follows Qatar’s successful hosting of a MotoGP race from November 6–8, an event that provided additional confidence about the region’s ability to accommodate major international motorsport competitions.
Nevertheless, Formula One has maintained that the races could still be cancelled if security conditions deteriorate.
The 2026 drivers’ championship has already been secured by Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who clinched his maiden world title at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
Mercedes also secured the constructors’ championship following the Brazilian Grand Prix, leaving the remaining races to complete the season’s calendar and determine final positions.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the organisation was prepared to welcome teams, drivers and supporters to Qatar and Abu Dhabi, while emphasising its commitment to delivering safe events.
The decision offers some certainty to teams, sponsors and fans after months of uncertainty, although developments in the region will continue to be monitored.
