Formula 1 confirms Middle East finale after Imola deadline passes

Final two rounds proceed as planned

F1 chiefs told Imola organisers on Tuesday that the historic Italian circuit is no longer needed for the end of the 2026 season. The Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled to run from November 27 to 29, followed by the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from December 4 to 6. These events complete a triple-header starting with the Las Vegas Grand Prix between November 20 and 22. The decision confirms the intention to hold the final rounds at their original venues despite ongoing regional conflict.

Contingency plans cancelled due to safety

Imola would have hosted the season finale during the first week of December if weather conditions deteriorated, according to the contingency plan that was prepared. Organisers received notice that preparations should stand down because the situation has not negatively developed in recent months. Earlier this year, races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were cancelled or delayed due to the conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran. Instead of occupying its standard April position, the Bahrain Grand Prix took place in October at Malaysia's Sepang circuit.

Safety remains top priority for bosses

Throughout the season, F1 chief Stefano Domenicali insisted that subsequent events would occur only if conditions worsened even more. A spokesperson stated that if conditions worsen before the events, officials will not hesitate to cancel the two races immediately. Travel advice from governments still allows travel and insurance remains valid for fans attending both countries. Several senior figures in F1 have expressed disquiet about going to the Middle East where missile strikes are still taking place.