The 2026 Formula One calendar could see its finale shifted back to Europe should the last two events slated for Qatar and Abu Dhabi prove unfeasible because of the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, F1 chief Stefano Domenico confirmed on Wednesday. The series has already been forced to cancel its April rounds in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, and over the weekend the organisers announced that the Bahrain Grand Prix will be moved to Malaysia and run in October instead of its traditional spring slot. The postponement of the Bahrain race has raised fresh concerns about the fate of the season‑ending rounds that were originally scheduled for late November and early December in the Gulf. The Qatar Grand Prix, set for 27‑29 November, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, due 4‑6 December, now sit on a precarious footing.
If the security situation does not improve, the FIA and the commercial rights holder will have to consider alternative venues. During a press briefing, Domenico said he remains optimistic that the calendar will stay intact, but stressed that the governing body will wait until the mid‑September deadline before making any definitive decision. "We are in constant contact with the other championships," he told reporters.
"The World Endurance Championship, for example, has already announced that it will not finish the year in the Middle East and will remain in Europe." He explained that the organisation’s approach is to give the situation as much time as possible to evolve, with a final verdict expected no earlier than the middle of September. "At this stage the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races are still confirmed," Domenico added, "but if the circumstances are not clearer by then, we will have to act accordingly." The logistical challenges of moving a Grand Prix on short notice are significant. Domenico highlighted that Brexit‑related documentation and customs procedures make Europe the most realistic alternative continent for the two final events.
He noted that several European circuits are under consideration, though he stopped short of naming any specific venue as a guaranteed replacement. One circuit that has attracted speculation is the historic Imola track in Italy. While the venue is certainly on the shortlist, Domenico described it as "an option, but not yet defined".
The possibility remains that more than one European circuit could be used to preserve the intended 24‑race schedule, even though the loss of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix has already reduced the calendar to 23 events. Weather is another factor that could influence the decision. Racing in Europe in late November or early December carries the risk of cooler temperatures and even rain. However, Domenico pointed out that the average climate in Europe at that time is actually milder than the conditions expected for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which takes place earlier in November.
He noted that the temperature data show Las Vegas can be considerably hotter, making a European finish potentially more comfortable for teams and spectators. The idea of adding a second Las Vegas race was briefly examined but ultimately dismissed.
Domenico explained that duplicating the event could dilute its prestige and pit it against the massive popularity of the NFL, which dominates the American sports landscape during that period. "We do not want to undervalue a jewel that is still growing," he said, emphasizing the need to protect the brand’s integrity. Any reshuffling of the latter part of the schedule could have knock‑on effects on the championship battle. As it stands, Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli leads the drivers’ standings by 50 points over Ferrari’s veteran Lewis Hamilton, with twelve races still to run.
A change in venue or timing could alter team strategies, tyre allocations, and even the psychological momentum of the title fight. Looking ahead, the season will resume after the summer hiatus with a sprint weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix from 21 to 23 August, all sessions being broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. Fans can stream the coverage via NOW, with a flexible, no‑contract subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
In summary, while the 2026 Formula One season is currently set to close in the Middle East, the ongoing conflict may force a relocation to Europe. The organisers are keeping all options on the table, from Imola to other undisclosed European circuits, and will make a final call after mid‑September once the security picture becomes clearer.
The decision will aim to preserve as much of the original 24‑race plan as possible while ensuring the safety of participants and the continuity of the championship narrative.