The 2026 Formula 1 season is set to conclude in Europe if the scheduled final rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are unable to proceed due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This confirmation comes from F1 president Stefano Domenicali, who remains hopeful that the current calendar will remain intact but is prepared for alternative arrangements.
Previous races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were cancelled, with the Bahrain Grand Prix now rescheduled to take place in Malaysia in October. Domenicali stated that a decision regarding the final two rounds will be made by mid-September, emphasizing that multiple European venues are under consideration as potential replacement hosts.
The challenge posed by Brexit-connected documentation makes Europe the sole viable alternative for the season's conclusion. Despite speculation surrounding Italy's Imola circuit as a potential replacement, Domenicali indicated that while it is an option, no definitive decisions have been made. The prospect of racing in Europe in late November or early December brings concerns about cold weather, although Domenicali noted that temperatures are expected to be colder in Las Vegas during the earlier part of November. The possibility of hosting a second race in Las Vegas was considered but ultimately dismissed to avoid undervaluing the event and competing with the NFL.
As the season resumes after the summer break, any further changes to the calendar could significantly impact the title race.