Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has confirmed that the sport is actively preparing alternative solutions for the closing rounds of the 2026 championship amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding races in the Middle East.
The final stretch of the current calendar is scheduled to conclude with the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, but concerns over regional stability have forced F1 management to explore contingency measures should either event become impossible to host.
The situation follows the earlier cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix in March. Both races had originally been scheduled for April before escalating geopolitical tensions linked to the Iran–United States/Israel conflict disrupted plans across the region. Although a ceasefire agreement was reached in early April, Formula 1 remains cautious due to the fragile nature of the situation.
Speaking about the issue, Domenicali revealed that the championship cannot afford to be unprepared and confirmed that discussions regarding replacement venues and revised scheduling scenarios are already underway behind the scenes.
While Formula 1 remains hopeful that the planned races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will proceed as expected, officials are understood to be monitoring developments closely before making any final commitments.
Reports have also suggested that organisers in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are still eager to recover their cancelled events later in the season if conditions improve. One possible option under consideration is a vacant period between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, which could provide a suitable window for rescheduling at least one of the missed races.
The prospect of late calendar adjustments has already sparked debate within the paddock, with teams aware that logistical planning for freight, travel and personnel could become increasingly complicated if changes are made at short notice.
Despite the uncertainty, Formula 1 leadership remains determined to complete a stable championship schedule while prioritising safety for drivers, team members and fans.
The 2026 season has already delivered its share of unpredictability both on and off the circuit, and the latest developments surrounding the calendar have added another layer of tension as the championship heads toward the second half of the campaign.
For now, F1 continues to work with race promoters and regional authorities while keeping backup plans ready in case further disruption affects the final races of the year.