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FIA expects F1 races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi to continue as planned

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is confident that the Formula 1 races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will go ahead, amid the current tensions in the Middle East.Due to the conflict between the United States-Israel and Iran, the races in…

By Jake Boxall-Legge · Motorsport

Published: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 5:02 PM

Key Things to Know

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem expects F1 races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi to go ahead as scheduled.
Earlier cancellations this season affected races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia amid regional tensions.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali previously maintained that keeping the races remains Plan A, with Imola as a backup.

The Story in 60 Seconds

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has stated that the upcoming Formula 1 grands prix in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are expected to proceed as planned despite ongoing regional conflict in the Middle East. Ben Sulayem emphasized that he feels secure about the events and would not expose FIA staff, drivers, or officials to undue risk.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali previously identified retaining both races as Plan A, with Imola serving as a contingency option if necessary. The FIA has also organized backup personnel protocols alongside local sporting authorities to address potential travel disruptions.

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FIA expects F1 races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi to continue as planned

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