FIA boss insists Qatar and Abu Dhabi F1 races “are going to happen”

FIA boss Mohammed Ben Sulayem has confirmed F1's intention is to race in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

By Lewis Larkam · Crash

Published: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 4:56 PM

Key Things to Know

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem insisted the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix will go ahead as planned.
Ben Sulayem stressed the FIA would not take staff or drivers to venues deemed unsafe.
The FIA remains prepared with contingencies if regional security conditions require alterations to the calendar.

The Story in 60 Seconds

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has stated that the final two Formula 1 races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will take place as planned. Despite regional volatility in the Middle East, the governing body plans to proceed with the season-ending double-header, with Ben Sulayem asserting that the FIA would never put staff, drivers, or officials at risk.

Ben Sulayem noted that he feels secure in the region, pointing out that his own family remains in the UAE. While he reiterated that the FIA is always prepared should circumstances necessitate contingencies, both F1 and MotoGP events scheduled for the region are currently expected to proceed as scheduled.

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FIA boss insists Qatar and Abu Dhabi F1 races “are going to happen”

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