F1 season may conclude in Europe due to war

The Formula 1 season will finish in Europe if the conflict in the Middle East continues, according to F1 president Stefano Domenicali. In a call with F1 media, Domenicali stated that the 2026 championship is at risk if it becomes impossible to hold the final races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. A final decision is set to be made by the "middle of September."

Domenicali confirmed, "For us today, the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are confirmed," noting that both events are already sold out, which he described as an incredible sign of the sport's resilience amidst global challenges.

However, he stated, "if the situation will not be cleared the way that we believe it should be, before the middle of September we will take the decision." Should Qatar and Abu Dhabi be called off, the end of the season will occur in Europe, as other venues cannot be utilized. It remains unclear where the final race would occur if this scenario unfolds, but the Imola circuit in Italy is considered a strong candidate.

F1 has previously canceled races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, which were scheduled for April due to the ongoing US-Israel war with Iran. Recently, the sport announced that Malaysia would replace Bahrain for a race in September, ensuring the series reaches the minimum of 21 grands prix required by commercial contracts. Domenicali emphasized the desire for an additional race after the Las Vegas Grand Prix scheduled for 21 November, stating, "There was a possibility of having two races in Las Vegas, but we don't want to ruin... a jewel that is growing."

Looking ahead to next year, the opening race will revert to Bahrain after two years in Australia due to the overlap with Ramadan. Domenicali mentioned that contingency plans are in place should the conflict persist: "So far, the calendar that will be presented... will be as a sort of a normal plan. But in case the situation in the Middle East will not be solved, we have options, different plans." These alternative plans aim to accommodate the target of maintaining 24 races globally next year.

In relation to the new engine regulations, Domenicali acknowledged the ongoing feedback from drivers, aiming to ensure a positive impact on the sport's evolution toward sustainability and performance. He expressed a commitment to create a more streamlined package for the next engine rules, planning to present an outline by the end of this year.