The 2026 Formula One calendar could see its finale shift back to Europe if the last two events slated for Qatar and Abu Dhabi prove untenable because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, F1 chief Stefano Domenico confirmed in a press briefing. This contingency follows earlier disruptions to the schedule, notably the cancellation of the April rounds in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Over the weekend, the governing body announced that the Bahrain Grand Prix, originally set for early spring, will now be run in Malaysia in October, underscoring the fluid nature of the 2026 timetable. Bahrain's inability to host its race in October has raised fresh questions about the feasibility of the season‑ending rounds in Qatar (scheduled for 27‑29 November) and Abu Dhabi (4‑6 December). Domenico told reporters on Wednesday that, while he remains optimistic that the calendar will stay as published, the organization will wait until its mid‑September deadline before making any definitive changes.
He emphasized that the decision will be taken with "the maximum time" to assess how the geopolitical situation evolves, and that no final call will be made before the middle of September. "For us, today, the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are confirmed," Domenico said. "But, of course, if the situation does not become clearer before the middle of September, we will have to make a decision accordingly." He added that the sport is in regular contact with other championships, noting that the World Endurance Championship (WEC) has already announced it will not finish its season in the Middle East and will instead remain in Europe.
The logistical hurdles of moving the finale out of the Gulf are significant. Domenico pointed to "Brexit‑connected documentation" as one of the reasons why Europe emerges as the only realistic alternative venue for the closing races. He hinted at several possible European circuits, but cautioned against making premature promises.
"There are some possibilities on the table, but I don't think it's right to make some promises or anticipate certain things," he explained. Among the venues being floated, Italy's historic Imola circuit has attracted speculation as a front‑runner. Domenico described Imola as "an option, but not defined" as a replacement venue.
It is conceivable that Imola, perhaps in conjunction with another European track, could host one or both of the displaced races, allowing Formula One to preserve as much of its 24‑round ambition as possible. At present, the calendar has already been trimmed to 23 events after the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was dropped. Weather considerations also factor into the discussion.
Racing in Europe in late November or early December could expose drivers and teams to colder conditions. However, Domenico noted that the expected temperatures in Europe at that time are actually milder than those expected for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which takes place earlier in November. He highlighted that the climate data shows Las Vegas will be cooler during its race weekend than many European venues will be during the potential rescheduled finale. The idea of adding a second Las Vegas race was briefly entertained but ultimately set aside.
Domenico warned that duplicating the event could dilute its prestige and pit Formula One against the massive draw of the NFL, which dominates the American sports landscape in early winter. "We don't want to ruin a jewel that is growing by undervaluing what we are doing there," he said, stressing the need to protect the brand's value. Any alteration to the calendar could have ripple effects on the championship battle. As of the latest standings, Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli leads the drivers' title by 50 points over Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton, with twelve races still to run.
A reshuffle of the final two rounds could influence strategies, tyre allocations, and the psychological momentum of the contenders. Looking ahead, the season will resume after the summer break with a sprint weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix from 21 to 23 August, all sessions broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. Fans can stream the coverage via NOW, with a no‑contract, cancel‑anytime arrangement. The organization remains committed to delivering a full and exciting season, even as it navigates the uncertainty surrounding the Middle East events and prepares contingency plans that could see the championship conclude on European soil.