F1 teams told to wait until mid-October for decision on Qatar, Abu Dhabi and season finale

F1 teams have been told to wait until mid-October for a decision on where the 2026 season ends, with Qatar and Abu Dhabi in doubt. Regional conflict has put both races under threat, and F1 is preparing contingency plans.

Why it matters:

The decision affects more than the calendar. F1 needs 22 rounds to meet sponsor and broadcaster obligations, and a shortened season could change the title fight.

The details:

• Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain scheduled, but the UK Foreign Office warns the region "remains unpredictable" with risk of escalation.
• Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were already cancelled this year; Bahrain will race in Malaysia next week.
• Imola is on standby for a replacement final round; Audi's Mattia Binotto says mid-October is "the last call".
• Red Bull's Laurent Mekies says logistics, including motorhome crews, are the main challenge; Binotto downplayed climate worries.

What's next:

If Qatar and Abu Dhabi are dropped and Imola takes one slot, the calendar shrinks to 22 rounds. That could affect the title race: Antonelli leads Russell by 81 points, and if he hasn't clinched in Singapore and his lead exceeds 125 points, the reduced total would make him champion by default.