The 2026 Formula 1 season could conclude in Europe if ongoing conflict in the Middle East prevents the scheduled final races from taking place in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Stefano Domenicali, president of Formula 1, confirmed that a decision regarding the locations of these season-ending events will be made by mid-September.
Domenicali indicated that while the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are currently confirmed and have sold out, alternative plans are in place should the situation not clear up. He stressed that if a relocation is necessary, the season would finish in Europe, as other regions are not viable options.
Contingency Plans and European Options
Formula 1 has already experienced disruptions due to the conflict, leading to the cancellation of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, which were originally slated for April. As a result, Malaysia was added to the calendar to host a race in October on behalf of Bahrain.
The potential need to move the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races, scheduled for November 27-29 and December 4-6 respectively, has led to speculation about possible European venues. While Domenicali did not specify a location, the Imola circuit in Italy is considered a strong candidate. He noted that Imola is an option but not yet a defined replacement venue. The challenges posed by “Brexit-connected documentation” were cited as a reason why Europe is the sole alternative for the final two races.
The possibility of hosting a second race in Las Vegas was considered but ultimately dismissed. Domenicali explained that the sport aims to avoid undervaluing the growing event in Las Vegas and to prevent direct competition with the NFL, a major sport in the United States, during that period of the year. He also confirmed that no other races would be held in the U.S. to conclude the season.
Engine Regulations and Driver Feedback
Beyond calendar adjustments, 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 like Fernando Alonso, who described fast corners as “charging stations” due to the need for constant battery recharging. Despite this, Domenicali stated that the on-track action has been “super positive” for fans, who are primarily focused on the racing rather than the technical intricacies.
Domenicali acknowledged that steps are being taken to reduce the impact of energy recovery on driving over the next two seasons. He also encouraged drivers, including Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, to offer constructive feedback rather than outspoken remarks, preferring private discussions to find solutions.
The president of F1’s governing body, the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has expressed a desire for a return to naturally aspirated V8 engines for the 2030 or 2031 engine rules. While most engine manufacturers are open to a V8 architecture, Mercedes and Audi prefer to retain turbochargers, and talks are reportedly leaning in that direction. The goal for future regulations is to simplify the sport, reduce car weight, incorporate sustainable fuel, and maintain a significant proportion of electrical power to ensure road relevance. Domenicali anticipates having an outline plan for the next engine rules ready for discussion by the end of this year.
The current calendar has been reduced to 23 races with the loss of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. F1 is keen to achieve as close to the originally planned 24-round schedule as possible. The season resumes after the summer break with the Dutch Grand Prix from August 21-23.
Source: bbc.com
