Formula One plans to finish its 2026 season in the Middle East, with the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix proceeding as scheduled. Multiple outlets report that an intended alternative—moving one of the finale races to Italy—has been ruled out.
BBC News says Imola in Italy is stood down as back-up, while Sky Sports reports that an Imola deadline to relocate a season-ending race has passed. Autosport and Motorsport.com add context about regional instability and state there is no plan B if the Iran conflict escalates dramatically.
The Independent similarly notes that Imola existed as a contingency but that F1 makes a final call to keep Qatar and Abu Dhabi given the Middle East situation. The Mail Online frames the decision around continuing the programme despite a potential war threat, but its core message aligns with the broader reporting that the Middle East finale remains in place.
