Guenther Steiner has questioned whether Imola would provide Formula 1 with a practical solution for the end of the 2026 season, arguing that weather and commercial concerns could make a European finale extremely difficult.
The Italian circuit is among several venues under consideration as Formula 1 searches for alternatives amid uncertainty surrounding the final part of the championship. An Imola return could create an all-Italian conclusion to the European contingency plan, but the former Haas team principal is unconvinced that racing there in November or December would be sensible.
Imola 2026 F1 calendar bid faces major obstacles
The conflict involving Iran has complicated Formula 1’s logistical planning and created uncertainty over races in the Middle East. The situation has echoes of the Covid-affected seasons, when established rounds became uncertain and alternative circuits were drafted into the calendar at relatively short notice.
The World Endurance Championship has already altered its future plans, while Formula 1 is expected to make its decision after the summer break. Imola is part of a wider group of possible replacement venues that also includes Portimão and Istanbul.
The Italian circuit had initially been excluded from the schedule but has since re-emerged as a candidate for the 2026 F1 season finale. Its availability raises the possibility of the championship ending in Italy, although no final choice has been made.
Middle East conflict forces Formula 1 to examine alternatives
Formula 1’s first response involves shifting part of its calendar strategy farther east, with Malaysia expected to return as the championship attempts to preserve a sufficiently long season. Plans for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix had appeared secure several months earlier, but the renewed conflict disrupted the proposed visit to Jeddah.
Attention has consequently moved towards the concluding rounds. Alongside the European candidates, rumours have suggested that Formula 1 could stage two events at Austin or Las Vegas. Every option, however, carries substantial logistical and commercial complications.
The uncertainty has left the published 2026 Formula 1 calendar subject to further adjustment. Moving cars, equipment and personnel between continents at the end of an already demanding season would make the location and timing of any replacement races especially important.
Guenther Steiner warns about a European F1 finale
Speaking on the Red Flags podcast, Guenther Steiner argued that relatively few circuits would be capable of accommodating Formula 1 under these circumstances. In his assessment, holding races in Europe during November and December would make little sense because the risk of disruptive weather would be too high.
Steiner also emphasised that Formula 1 could not choose a replacement solely because a circuit was available. Any venue would need to be commercially viable and capable of generating revenue, rather than requiring the teams to spend money on an event with limited financial value.
The former Haas team principal therefore believes finding a workable solution will be extremely difficult. His doubts contrast with the contingency plan discussed by Formula 1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali, who has indicated that the championship could finish its 2026 season in Europe if the scheduled Middle Eastern rounds cannot proceed.
Malaysia could help F1 protect its race total
Guenther Steiner expects Formula 1 to race in Malaysia as part of its attempt to reach or surpass 20 Grands Prix during the 2026 campaign. He is also convinced that Stefano Domenicali would prefer the revised calendar to contain 22 rounds.
Nevertheless, Steiner maintained that identifying enough suitable circuits for the closing phase of the championship would be challenging. The issue is not simply whether venues such as Imola, Portimão or Istanbul can host Formula 1, but whether they can do so at the required time of year while satisfying operational and commercial demands.
Imola has already indicated that it is prepared to step in if Formula 1 requires a replacement. Its position in Italy would simplify some aspects of travel for the predominantly European-based teams, but late-season temperatures and the possibility of poor weather remain significant concerns.
The eventual decision will determine more than whether Imola returns to the championship. It will shape the final weeks of the 2026 title contest and influence Formula 1’s broader response to a geopolitical situation that has already disrupted its established calendar plans.
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