F1 forced to break with tradition for expected Imola season finale

F1 is expected to end its season at Imola, breaking with the usual Sunday slot. Teams have reportedly been told they will not travel to Qatar or Abu Dhabi, with the Middle East still considered too unstable. The championship is likely to finish in Emilia-Romagna on December 6 — at a significantly earlier time than normal.

Why it matters:

A switch to Imola would be a rare late change to the F1 calendar and an unprecedented European season finale. It would confirm F1 has abandoned the Middle Eastern rounds that were supposed to decide the title, with safety concerns driving the call.

The details:

• The sun sets at 4:34 p.m. in Imola on December 6, and the circuit has no permanent lighting suitable for F1.
• The Grand Prix is expected to start between 12:00 and 1:00 p.m. to guarantee enough daylight for the full distance.
• Friday and Saturday sessions shift: free practice runs in the morning and early afternoon, while qualifying drops its usual 4:00 p.m. start.
• Hotels across the Imola area have reportedly been fully booked by F1, a strong sign preparations are underway.
• FOM still insists Qatar and Abu Dhabi will go ahead, creating a disconnect with what teams have been told internally.

What's next:

The paddock expects an official announcement confirming Imola as the season finale. Once confirmed, the revised schedule gives fans a unique European finale — but one that requires an early alarm clock.