Formula 1 intends to complete the 2026 season with the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix despite continuing tensions in the Middle East, with Formula 2 President Bruno Michel indicating that the two events remain part of the championship’s current plans.
With a little over a month remaining before the Qatar Grand Prix, the objective is still to preserve the existing 2026 Formula 1 calendar. Recent attacks near the Lusail circuit have increased attention on the situation, but organisers have not changed course and teams are continuing to prepare for the final two rounds while awaiting definitive confirmation.
F1 plans to keep Qatar and Abu Dhabi on the 2026 calendar
Bruno Michel explained that Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain on the calendar and that Formula 2 is following Formula 1’s guidance over the situation. He indicated that Formula 1 is fully aware of the requirements involved in staging both events in suitable conditions and expects the championship to conclude with the two Middle East rounds.
The current schedule sends Formula 1 to Lusail for the Qatar Grand Prix before the season concludes at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina. The wider question surrounding major sporting events in the region has become increasingly significant as geopolitical tensions continue, although Formula 1 and other major championships are still maintaining their Middle East schedules.
There nevertheless remains a contingency should the situation deteriorate. Imola is ready to step in if circumstances force Formula 1 to make a late alteration to the final part of the season.
Formula 2 title fight also depends on Qatar and Abu Dhabi
The decision is particularly important for Formula 2 because its championship remains undecided heading into the final two events. Michel stressed that the series is eager to resume competition and complete a closely contested title fight in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Three drivers remain in contention for the Formula 2 crown, increasing the sporting importance of the two planned events. Rafael Câmara currently leads the standings after a strong weekend in Baku and has recently been announced as Haas’ new Formula 1 driver alongside Oliver Bearman, replacing Esteban Ocon.
Nikola Tsolov is among Câmara’s challengers and is also competing for an opportunity with Racing Bulls. Liam Lawson’s recent performances have complicated that objective, leaving Tsolov needing to convince the Milton Keynes-based team’s management while simultaneously pursuing the Formula 2 championship.
For now, however, the working plan remains unchanged. Qatar and Abu Dhabi are expected to close the Formula 1 season as scheduled, with both the Formula 1 and Formula 2 championships preparing to proceed unless developments in the region force organisers to reconsider.
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