Formula One is preparing contingency plans to ensure a full 24-race calendar in 2027 amid ongoing uncertainties related to the conflict in the Middle East, according to F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali. The current 2026 season has already been impacted, with the Bahrain Grand Prix rescheduled to take place at Malaysia’s Sepang circuit on October 4 after being canceled in April. The Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, also canceled earlier this year, is not expected to be rescheduled.
The season’s final two races, traditionally held in Qatar and Abu Dhabi in late November and early December, respectively, face uncertainty due to the regional conflict. While both events currently remain confirmed and tickets have been sold, Domenicali indicated a decision regarding their status will be made by mid-September at the latest. If the situation in the Middle East does not improve, the sport is ready to relocate the season finale to Europe, marking the first time in nearly three decades that the championship could conclude on the continent.
Among the possible replacement venues, the Imola circuit in Italy is considered the frontrunner to host the final race, with other candidates including Turkey and Portugal—both of which are scheduled to return to the F1 calendar in 2027. Domenicali emphasized that no definitive decision has yet been made on the alternative site, noting that the organization is carefully monitoring the evolving situation before finalizing plans.
Despite the disruptions, the sport remains committed to maintaining a 24-race schedule for the 2027 season. Domenicali stressed the importance of credibility and consistency in the sport’s calendar, suggesting that the temporary solution of relocating races—such as Bahrain’s move to Malaysia—is not sustainable long term. "We are creative to keep the calendar alive, but I hope the situation in the world will allow us to return to the countries where we want to host Grands Prix," he said.
The 2026 season resumed after the summer break with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort on August 22 and features an especially packed schedule, including 12 races before early December with three triple-header weekends. Bahrain is slated to host pre-season testing in February 2027, underscoring the Middle East’s continued role as a key region for the sport.
As the season progresses, Formula One officials are working closely with race hosts to explore all options, aiming to safeguard the complete calendar while adapting as necessary to geopolitical developments. The decision on the final two races will be finalized by mid-September to allow teams, fans, and stakeholders to plan accordingly.