Formula 1 maintains original plan

Formula 1 still intends to finish its 2026 season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, even with tensions in the Middle East and the possibility of holding a race in Imola instead. According to ESPN, the organizers want to stick to the original calendar, but no official confirmation has been given.

Calendar details unchanged

The current plan includes three final races: Las Vegas on November 22, Qatar on November 29, and Abu Dhabi on December 6. However, the Middle East conflict has already changed the schedule this year, with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix canceled and the Bahrain race moved to Malaysia.

Final decision deadline set

In September, Formula 1 told the eleven teams that a final decision would be made by mid-October. Mattia Binotto, director of Audi, confirmed this timeline during a meeting in Baku, stating that mid-October was the last chance to decide.

No official confirmation expected

As of October 15, Formula 1 still plans to hold races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, according to ESPN. However, unlike what teams hoped, F1 is unlikely to issue a formal statement confirming the races will go ahead.

Official stance remains unchanged

The official position is that the calendar remains unchanged unless modifications are announced. Stefano Domenicali, the head of Formula 1, tried to reassure teams during the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, saying the final two races would be in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

Uncertainty complicates preparations

This uncertainty is making it difficult for teams to plan, as they need to move equipment and staff. Meanwhile, Imola is preparing for a possible replacement race, with stands being installed. ESPN reports that a calendar change could still happen until mid-November.

Impact on championship and schedule

If the final races are canceled, the number of points available would drop significantly. Kimi Antonelli might be crowned champion without racing again, depending on his standing. Holding a race in Imola would also help Formula 1 meet its goal of at least 22 races this season.

Uncertainty continues into final weeks

Formula 1 prefers to keep its original plan but has Imola as a backup. This situation could keep uncertainty going until the final weeks of the championship.