Imola is hoping for the possible cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix — but it is not alone. As uncertainty continues to surround the Middle East rounds of the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship, several European circuits are closely monitoring developments, aware that they could be called upon at short notice.
The FIA is currently keeping a close eye on the evolving situation in the Middle East. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirmed this in a social media statement addressing what is happening in regions that, in just a few weeks, are scheduled to host two key events on the Formula 1 calendar: the Bahrain Grand Prix and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
While the hope remains that the situation will stabilise quickly, organisers are already working behind the scenes to evaluate potential last-minute alternatives for a season that is now fast approaching. Any such decision would need to be taken well in advance, given the enormous logistical and operational effort required to stage a Formula 1 weekend. From freight transportation and paddock construction to hospitality, broadcasting infrastructure and fan management, replacing a Grand Prix is anything but simple.
Possible alternatives to the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix
According to several insiders in recent hours, the two leading candidates to step in should Bahrain and Saudi Arabia be unable to host their races are Imola and Portimao. Both circuits are considered technically and logistically capable of organising a Formula 1 Grand Prix on relatively short notice.
The Italian venue, the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, remained on the Formula 1 calendar until last season and therefore retains the infrastructure and operational know-how required to host the sport at the highest level. Meanwhile, the Algarve International Circuit in Portimao has already proven its credentials during previous Formula 1 events and is widely regarded as ready to return on a more permanent basis in the near future.
In Imola’s case, there is an additional factor that could facilitate a rapid return to the calendar. The circuit is expected to host a World Endurance Championship round around the same period, meaning that the track facilities, paddock areas and grandstands would already be prepared to accommodate a significant number of spectators. This overlap could reduce preparation time and make the Italian circuit a practical contingency option.
Rescheduling the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix later in the season appears significantly more complicated. The 2026 Formula 1 calendar is already densely packed, leaving very limited room for major adjustments. Advancing other Grands Prix by several weeks would also present logistical challenges and is widely viewed as unlikely under the current circumstances.
For this reason, both the FIA and Liberty Media are carefully analysing the evolving geopolitical context and assessing all possible scenarios. Should alternative venues be required, an official announcement would likely need to come soon, given the tight timelines involved.
For now, the situation remains fluid. Imola and Portimao are watching closely, aware that an unexpected opportunity could arise if the Middle East rounds are affected. Formula 1, once again, finds itself balancing global ambitions with real-world challenges — and the coming weeks will be decisive for the final shape of the 2026 calendar.
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