Lewis Hamilton hopes F1 is able to end season in Middle East

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 25, 2026

Lewis Hamilton expressed hope that the final two Formula One races scheduled in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will proceed despite regional geopolitical tensions. The outcome of these events is significant as cancellations could alter the championship timeline and prompt alternative venues to fulfill contractual race requirements.

Lewis Hamilton expressed hope that the Formula One season will conclude as planned with the final two races scheduled in the Middle East, despite ongoing tensions in the region. The season finale is set for Qatar on November 29 and Abu Dhabi on December 6, but the continuation of conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran has cast uncertainty over these events.

Speaking ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, held in a country bordering Iran, Hamilton said he enjoyed racing in the Middle East and hoped the remaining rounds would proceed safely. “From what I have read, things seem okay out there, but I don’t have all the information and I don’t know what the risk levels are,” he said. Hamilton added that he trusted Formula One’s chief executive, Stefano Domenicali, to make the appropriate decisions for the sport.

Earlier this year, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix were canceled due to the escalation of hostilities in the region. The Bahrain race was later rescheduled to take place at Sepang in Malaysia. Formula One is reportedly committed to completing at least 23 races this season to meet contractual obligations with broadcasters. Consequently, if the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds were canceled, an alternative finale is likely to be held at Imola, Italy.

Promoters of the Middle Eastern races remain optimistic that the events will go ahead, although the evolving situation has prompted contingency planning. In Abu Dhabi, organizers had announced musical performances by artists including Zara Larsson, the Script, Imagine Dragons, and Lewis Capaldi. However, Zara Larsson subsequently withdrew from the lineup, citing concerns following calls to reconsider performances in light of the UAE’s involvement in regional issues.

The championship battle itself could be impacted by the status of the remaining races. Currently, Kimi Antonelli leads George Russell by 81 points with nine races left. If the number of remaining events is reduced, Antonelli could secure the title earlier than anticipated. Nevertheless, a decision regarding the Middle Eastern races is not expected until later in the season, with Formula One aiming to maintain the competitiveness of the championship for as long as possible.

As the situation remains fluid, officials and teams continue to monitor developments closely, balancing sporting commitments with security considerations amid the broader geopolitical conflict.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.