F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has announced that the 2026 F1 season could finish in Europe if the Middle Eastern venues can not host their upcoming races.
Due to the conflicts across the Middle East, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix were postponed. Subsequently, these ongoing conflicts have potentially left Qatar and Abu Dhabi unable to host their races.
A solution to host the Bahrain Grand Prix arose before Sunday’s Hungarian Grand Prix, won by McLaren’s Lando Norris. The fan favourite Malaysian circuit, Sepang, will host the race under Bahraini sponsorship and funding.
The Bahrain Grand Prix hosted by Malaysia will take place on the weekend of 2nd October to 4th October. Creating a triple header with the event taking place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grand Prix.
Several European tracks have been proposed as hosts if needed.
Domenicali’s Announcement
Domenicali announced to F1 media, saying. “ As of today (29th July), the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are confirmed.” Before further adding, “But of course, if the situation is not cleared the way that we believe it should be before the middle of September, we will take the decision.”
The CEO has not mentioned rescheduling the cancelled Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, leaving fans wondering if there will be a shorter calendar this year.
Safety Should Be the Main Priority
The conflict in the Middle East has been escalating over recent years, and many fans will remember the 2022 instalment of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
During first practice, a missile landed seven miles away from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Several drivers from the 2022 grid complained of ‘a burning smell inside the car’ before being informed of the alarming situation.
Despite this, the race still took place; drivers were not shy about voicing concerns about a potential cancellation of the event, but their words were futile.
With the conflict gradually intensifying, it would come as a shock to see the three remaining Middle Eastern venues host the race.
Which Tracks Are Suggested as Replacements?
Replacement tracks are not as easy to sort as spectators would expect.
The FIA must ensure tracks are ‘Grade One’ for them to host a race in the pinnacle of motorsport.
There also needs to be consideration for the new 2026 regulations to ensure an exciting race commences.
Over the 2026 season, there have been several announcements of tracks returning over the coming years.
Turkish circuit, Istanbul Park, and the Portuguese track, Portimao, are scheduled to return to the calendar next season. Two tracks that could host the potential cancellations.
Portimao has been used as a test track by many Formula One teams; whether it’s for a Pirelli tyre test or a midseason private test, the track is ready for use.
But it could come too soon for the 2026 season. The long straights and limited break zones for battery recharging could result in a poor event.
As teams learn and upgrade the battery for 2027, along with slight adaptation to the regulations. Portimao will be fit for purpose in 2027 more than now.
Istanbul Park, which was hailed as “The best race track in the world” by former CEO Bernie Ecclestone, is going to be a welcome return to the calendar.
The track was used as a replacement back in 2021 during COVID restrictions. It replaced the Singapore Grand Prix and hosted a memorable weekend of on-track action.
A track certainly fit for purpose in the current regulations, it would be a great event if its services were required.
Imola is a track in contention to host a race. Dropped from the calendar at the end of 2025, the track is ready and available. With plenty of varied cornering speeds and only one large straight to contend with regarding battery deployment, the race could be an exciting prospect.
Weather would be the deciding factor in whether Europe could host the final couple of races. It will be Winter season on the continent, which can bring adverse conditions for any racing event.
Fans will now have to wait in anticipation for any potential announcements to come in September.
