Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali says the 2026 championship could finish in Europe if conflict in the Middle East makes it impossible to stage the planned final races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
The comments point to a possible change at the end of the F1 calendar if conditions in the region prevent those season-closing events from going ahead. Qatar and Abu Dhabi are currently expected to host the final part of the championship, but an alternative would be needed if the situation does not allow that.
Domenicali’s position suggests Formula 1 is considering a Europe-based finish as a contingency for 2026 rather than trying to force races in affected locations. It underlines how international sport can be disrupted by wider security concerns and regional instability.
While no replacement venues were named in the available report, the message is clear: if the Middle East conflict continues and Qatar and Abu Dhabi cannot hold their races, Formula 1 is prepared to bring the season to a close in Europe.
