Lewis Hamilton has questioned the consistency of Formula 1’s approach to concerns surrounding the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, pointing to the championship’s recent visit to Azerbaijan despite its direct border with Iran.
The final part of the 2026 Formula 1 calendar remains subject to uncertainty because of the ongoing conflict involving Iran in the Middle East. A new deadline has reportedly been set for mid-October, by which point Formula 1 is expected to decide whether the races at Lusail and Yas Marina can take place as planned on the final weekend of November and the first weekend of December respectively.
Lewis Hamilton points to Azerbaijan amid Qatar and Abu Dhabi uncertainty
Formula 1 currently intends to race at both Qatar and Abu Dhabi, which would leave the season at 23 Grands Prix. Under that scenario, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix would be the only event removed from the schedule, while the Bahrain Grand Prix has instead been rearranged and is being staged in Malaysia. The revised event can be followed through the Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang schedule and circuit guide.
Hamilton has highlighted what he sees as an inconsistency in the discussion. Formula 1 recently raced in Azerbaijan, a country that shares a land border with Iran, yet the Baku event did not generate the same level of concern that now surrounds Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
The geographical comparison formed an important part of his argument. Baku is approximately 350 miles from Tehran as the crow flies, while Doha is around 700 miles from the Iranian capital and Abu Dhabi approximately 800 miles away. Neither Qatar nor the United Arab Emirates shares a land border with Iran.
Imola alternative fails to convince Lewis Hamilton
The issue emerged when Hamilton was asked about the possibility of Imola replacing one of the Middle Eastern races and potentially hosting the season finale. The Ferrari driver acknowledged that Imola is an enjoyable circuit to drive, but he did not believe it would make a particularly compelling venue for the final race.
Having driven there recently, Lewis Hamilton explained that the circuit was very bumpy when running with straight-line mode open and suggested overtaking would also be difficult. His preference was therefore for the championship to retain its planned conclusion in the Middle East if circumstances allow.
The seven-time world champion also stressed that he did not know every detail of the situation affecting Qatar and Abu Dhabi. From his perspective, however, both locations appeared to be acceptable, while he found it notable that Formula 1’s recent trip to neighbouring Azerbaijan had attracted comparatively little discussion.
Lewis Hamilton hopes F1 can finish the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi
The Briton ultimately expressed hope for peace and for Formula 1 to be able to travel to both remaining Middle Eastern events. He regards the two venues positively and has a particular appreciation for Abu Dhabi.
The decision now rests with Formula 1 as the mid-October deadline approaches. If both races remain on the schedule, the championship would complete a 23-round season after the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was lost and Bahrain was relocated to Malaysia.
For Hamilton, the debate also raises a broader question about how safety concerns are applied across different events. His comments centre on the contrast between scrutiny of Qatar and Abu Dhabi and the championship’s willingness to race recently in Azerbaijan, geographically much closer to Tehran. More updates on the seven-time world champion are available in the Lewis Hamilton Ferrari section.
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