Formula 1’s governing body remains committed to holding the final two races of the 2026 season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi despite ongoing conflict in the Gulf region, International Automobile Federation (FIA) president Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated on October 20. Speaking at the opening of a new FIA Remote Operations Centre near London’s Biggin Hill airport, Ben Sulayem expressed cautious confidence that the November 29 Grand Prix at Qatar’s Lusail circuit and the December 6 race at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina circuit will proceed as planned.
Ben Sulayem acknowledged the uncertain security environment stemming from the war in Iran and related tensions in the Gulf but said there is currently no cause for cancellation. "Does this say (mean) that nothing going to happen? I cannot predict this. I can only tell you today that there is nothing and the two races are going to happen," he said. He added that his own children remained in the United Arab Emirates and that the FIA has contingency measures in place should travel restrictions affect staff attendance. F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali, who also attended the event, has reaffirmed the calendar’s confirmation but did not comment further.
The FIA has identified Italy’s Imola circuit as a potential fallback venue if both Gulf races must be canceled. This precaution comes amid broader disruptions to sporting events in the region. The FIA World Rally Championship event in Saudi Arabia, originally scheduled for November 11 to 14, was canceled due to the deteriorating security situation. Although the Jeddah-based rally remained listed for the Middle East championship, local organizers requested its removal just days ago.
The January Dakar Rally, traditionally held entirely within Saudi Arabia, also faces uncertainty amid escalating hostilities between Saudi Arabia and the Iran-aligned Houthi movement in Yemen. The Houthis have intensified attacks on Saudi cities, airports, and energy infrastructure, raising concerns over the rally’s safety. Several other sporting events in Saudi Arabia, including cycling and tennis tournaments, have been postponed or canceled in recent weeks.
Reports indicate organizers are exploring alternative routes for the Dakar Rally, potentially shifting it to northern Saudi Arabia or even relocating it to Morocco, though no official confirmation has been made by Amaury Sport Organisation, the French company managing the rally. The current Dakar itinerary begins and ends at King Abdullah Economic City near the Red Sea coast.
Ben Sulayem emphasized that safety remains paramount. "We never take our staff or drivers or any officials to a place where we feel it is risky. No way," he said. While remaining hopeful the Dakar Rally will proceed as scheduled, he acknowledged that decisions depend on evolving conditions and that alternative arrangements are under consideration.