Formula 1 season could conclude in Europe if Middle East conflict persists
The Formula 1 2026 championship season is set to conclude in Europe if ongoing conflict in the Middle East prevents the final races from being held in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Stefano Domenicali, president of Formula 1, confirmed that a final decision regarding these events would be made by mid-September.
Domenicali noted that the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are currently confirmed and have already sold out, which he described as a significant indicator of the sport’s resilience. However, he stressed that if the situation does not improve, a decision will be taken before mid-September. Should the Middle Eastern venues be unfeasible, the season finale would then take place in Europe, as other locations are not viable alternatives.
Contingency Plans and Calendar Adjustments
The conflict has already led to the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races, which were originally scheduled for April. As a result, Malaysia has stepped in to host a race in September on behalf of Bahrain. This addition brings the number of Grand Prix events to 21, fulfilling various commercial contract requirements. Despite this, Domenicali expressed a desire for an additional race after the Las Vegas Grand Prix on 21 November.
While Domenicali did not specify a European venue for a potential season finale, the Imola circuit in Italy is considered a strong possibility. He mentioned that Imola is an option but not yet a defined replacement venue. The challenges associated with “Brexit-connected documentation” were cited as a reason why Europe is the only viable alternative for the final two races, with multiple options within the continent being explored.
Consideration was given to hosting a second race in Las Vegas, but this idea was ultimately dismissed. Domenicali explained that a double-header in Las Vegas could potentially undervalue the event, which is still growing. Furthermore, holding another race there during that period would mean competing for viewership with the NFL, a major sport in the US, which F1 aims to avoid.
Engine Regulations and Future Plans
Looking ahead, the opening race for next year is expected to return to Bahrain after two years in Australia, a change influenced by the timing of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Domenicali also indicated that contingency plans are in place should the conflict continue into the next season, with the goal of maintaining a 24-country calendar.
Discussions are also underway regarding future engine regulations. The current engines, which feature a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power, have drawn criticism from drivers. Two-time champion Fernando Alonso described fast corners as “charging stations” due to the need for constant battery recharging, which impacts driving at the limit. Domenicali acknowledged steps being taken to reduce the effect of energy recovery on driving over the next two seasons, calling it “the right thing for the sport.”
He also encouraged drivers to be “constructive” in their comments following outspoken remarks from individuals such as Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. Domenicali affirmed that while everyone is entitled to an opinion, he prefers to discuss such matters privately to find solutions. The president of F1’s governing body, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has advocated for a return to naturally aspirated V8 engines for the 2030 or 2031 engine rules, a plan he has threatened to impose unilaterally.
However, Domenicali stated that the sport is on track to have an outline plan for the next engine rules by the end of this year. The primary objective for future regulations is to simplify processes, reduce car weight, incorporate sustainable fuel, and maintain electrification, while allowing drivers to push their cars to the limit. Most engine manufacturers are open to a V8 architecture, though Mercedes and Audi prefer to retain turbochargers, and discussions are reportedly moving in that direction. It is also anticipated that engines will retain a significant proportion of electrical power to ensure their relevance to road car technology.
The 2026 Formula 1 season is scheduled to resume after the summer break with a Sprint weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix from 21-23 August.
Source: bbc.com
