F1's Middle East Contingency Plans: CEO Says 'Working Overtime' as Revenue Surges

Formula 1 is actively developing contingency plans for its disrupted Middle Eastern rounds as the war in Iran continues to reshape the 2026 calendar. CEO Derek Chang confirmed that F1 boss Stefano Domenicali and his team are "working overtime" on options, including potential rescheduling, while the situation remains too fluid to make firm commitments. On the financial side, Liberty Media reported strong Q1 numbers, with revenue growing 53% year-on-year to $617 million, though the impact of the April cancellations will hit Q2.

Why it matters:

The Middle East has been a key pillar of F1's calendar, hosting lucrative rounds that contribute significantly to revenue. The loss of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia already creates a hole, and any further disruption to Qatar and Abu Dhabi would force more radical adjustments. How F1 navigates this uncertainty will test its calendar flexibility and stakeholder relationships.

The details:

• Contingency options: The most optimistic scenario involves reinstating one of the canceled rounds – likely Bahrain or Jeddah – on the free weekend between Baku (September 13) and Singapore (September 20). Alternatively, shifting Abu Dhabi's season finale date by one week could slot in a race between Qatar (November 29) and Yas Marina, but that would create an unprecedented quadruple-header with Las Vegas, adding to driver and team fatigue.
• Worst-case scenario: If the conflict drags on, Qatar and Abu Dhabi themselves could be at risk, forcing F1 to consider further calendar reconfiguration.
• Financial snapshot: Q1 revenue hit $617 million (up from $403 million in Q1 2025), driven by three races held (including Japan) versus two last year, plus new sponsorship deals like Standard Chartered. Operating income rose to $107 million, with OIBDA of $172 million. However, Q2 will reflect the absence of the April Middle Eastern rounds, with only five races expected this quarter compared to nine in 2025.

What's next:

• Timely decisions: Chang emphasized that F1 will evaluate alternatives and make decisions with as much lead time as possible. Domenicali noted that the cutoff for rescheduling a canceled race differs from that for potential future cancellations, and that teams and promoters are being aligned.
• Revenue outlook: While Q1 growth is strong, the full-year calendar uncertainty means revenue forecasts remain cautious. Liberty Media remains bullish on long-term prospects, citing growing audiences and deepening fan engagement.

F1's ability to adapt will be tested, but the series is leaving no stone unturned to salvage a disrupted season.