F1 stars ‘don’t want’ Italy season finale as tax police target paddock over back-dated bills before Grand Prix switch

Formula 1 drivers are reluctant to race in Italy for the season finale amid an ongoing tax investigation, according to driver Valtteri Bottas. While the final 2026 races are scheduled for Qatar and Abu Dhabi, Middle East conflict has prompted bosses to consider Imola as a backup venue. However, Bottas indicated drivers oppose the switch due to both cold weather concerns and aggressive back-dated tax demands from Italian authorities.

Italy's financial police, the Guardia di Finanza, reportedly sent letters requesting tax returns on past income earned in the country. Bottas clarified that drivers do not oppose paying taxes generally, but are frustrated that authorities are targeting earnings dating back seven to eight years without prior warning. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen dismissed the issue, stating drivers simply must pay their taxes.