Formula One is waiting on a final decision for the season finale. The campaign is scheduled to finish with a round in Qatar on November 29 and a follow‑up race in Abu Dhabi a week later. The story comes from the PA News Agency, with photo credit to David Davies/PA.
Season finale schedule and contingency plans
Imola has been placed on standby for the season finale if the Middle East events cannot be staged. The Press Association notes that no hard deadline has been set and a decision was expected by the middle of this month. Organisers are also watching the United States‑Iran conflict, which could affect the ability to hold races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
As it stands, the Yas Marina Circuit will stage this year’s final race, and tickets remain on sale for both the Qatar and Abu Dhabi events. The UK Foreign Office advises that the situation in the region remains unpredictable, but it no longer advises against travel, keeping fans able to attend.
Ticket sales and next year’s calendar
Tickets continue to be available for the two Middle East races. It is also expected that next year’s calendar will be confirmed later this week, possibly on Wednesday, with Bahrain and Saudi Arabia slated to host the opening two rounds in March. Both Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races were cancelled this year amid an escalation of violence in the region.
However, a ‘Bahrain Grand Prix’ will unusually be staged at Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit from 2‑4 October 2026, providing a temporary home for the event. The continued sale of tickets reflects confidence that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds will proceed as planned.
Loading post…
Driver reactions and race highlights
With Qatar and Abu Dhabi still officially on the calendar, nine scheduled rounds remain. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli moved closer to his maiden title with a win in Madrid on Sunday.
Lando Norris, who finished third in the Spanish Grand Prix, called the Virtual Safety Car a “stupid rule” and urged changes to its deployment. Max Verstappen said the debate would be raised at the next drivers’ briefing in Azerbaijan in a fortnight.
It is extremely painful for Lando to lose a win. Sometimes you might lose points because of the VSC but this time it cost him a win.
— Max Verstappen, driver
Verstappen added that the sport would discuss possible adjustments at the upcoming briefing, highlighting the importance of fairness for all competitors.
