The 2026 Formula 1 calendar could see its finale shift back to Europe if the last two events slated for Qatar and Abu Dhabi are forced to move because of the continuing unrest in the Middle East, F1 chief Stefano Domenico confirmed in a recent interview. This contingency plan follows earlier disruptions to the schedule, including the cancellation of the April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Over the weekend the governing body announced that the Bahrain Grand Prix, originally set for spring, will now be staged in Malaysia in October, underscoring the fluid nature of the 2026 timetable. Bahrain's inability to host its October race has raised fresh concerns about the feasibility of the season‑ending rounds in Qatar (scheduled for November 27‑29) and Abu Dhabi (December 4‑6).
Domenico told reporters on Wednesday that, while he remains optimistic that the calendar will stay as currently drafted, the organisation will wait until its mid‑September decision deadline before confirming any changes. He emphasized that the sport is in close contact with other series, noting that the World Endurance Championship has already announced it will not finish the year in the Middle East and will instead remain in Europe. "We are taking the maximum amount of time to see how the situation evolves," Domenico said. "A final decision will not be taken before the middle of September.
For now, the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races are confirmed, but if the security picture does not improve by that date, we will have to relocate the finale to Europe." The logistical and regulatory hurdles tied to "Brexit‑related documentation" mean that Europe is the only realistic alternative venue for the two closing events, although a number of circuits are being considered. Domenico was careful not to name a specific replacement, but he did acknowledge that the historic Imola circuit in Italy is on the shortlist, even if it has not been formally designated as a backup. Formula 1 is keen to preserve as much of the originally planned 24‑race schedule as possible.
With the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix already removed, the calendar currently stands at 23 races. If the Middle Eastern rounds are lost, the series may look to run two European races in late November or early December, a period that traditionally brings cooler weather. Domenico pointed out, however, that the temperatures expected in Europe at that time are actually milder than those forecast for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which takes place earlier in November.
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 the sport against the NFL, which dominates the American sports landscape during the same period.
"We don’t want to undervalue a jewel that is still growing," he said, stressing the need to protect the brand’s reputation. Weather uncertainty remains a factor for any European finale. Climate change has introduced greater variability, making it difficult to predict exact conditions months in advance. Domenico noted that while Europe may be cooler, the variability could still affect track performance and spectator comfort.
Potential calendar reshuffles could also influence the championship battle. Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli currently enjoys a 50‑point lead over Ferrari veteran Lewis Hamilton, with twelve races left on the docket. A shift in venue could alter the strategic calculus for teams, especially those that excel in hot, desert conditions versus cooler, more temperate tracks.
The season will pick back up after the summer hiatus with a sprint weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix from August 21‑23, all sessions broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. Fans can stream the coverage via NOW without a contract and cancel at any time. Further updates on the status of the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds will be provided as the September deadline approaches, ensuring that teams, drivers, and supporters have the latest information on where the championship will conclude.