FIA President Confirms Final F1 Races Amid Gulf Security Concerns

FIA President Ben Sulayem has issued a fresh assurance that the final two rounds of the 2026 Formula 1 season will proceed as scheduled. Despite escalating security concerns in the Gulf region, the FIA maintains that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix remain the definitive conclusion to the year's championship battle.

Why it matters:

The 2026 calendar has already faced significant disruption, with geopolitical instability forcing the sport to pivot mid-season. Any further cancellations or last-minute venue changes would not only disrupt logistical planning for teams but could potentially impact the sporting integrity of the title race as it reaches its climax.

The details:

• Scheduled Dates: The penultimate race is set for November 29 in Qatar, followed by the season finale on December 6 at Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi.
• Security Risks: Current concerns are driven by recent attacks on commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz and strikes within Saudi Arabia.
• President's Stance: Sulayem argues that media reports often exaggerate the danger, citing his own family's residence in the region as a benchmark for the actual safety level on the ground.
• Contingency Planning: The FIA has prepared alternative staffing plans to ensure the races can be governed even if key officials face government travel restrictions.
• Alternative Venue: Imola has been officially identified as the primary replacement site should the Abu Dhabi finale become untenable.

The big picture:

This season has been defined by unprecedented volatility in the Middle East. The April Bahrain and Saudi Arabian GPs were cancelled at their home circuits; while Bahrain was eventually salvaged by moving to Sepang in October, Saudi Arabia was dropped from the schedule entirely. The sport is now fighting to avoid a third major disruption in the region.

What's next:

While the FIA is optimistic, safety remains the absolute priority. The federation will closely monitor the situation leading up to the November 29 start, with the "Imola option" remaining a critical safety valve for the championship.