Photo via Crash.net

F1’s deadline for Middle East races has passed - so what’s happening with the calendar?

Formula 1 has now passed the self-imposed October deadline to decide whether the 2026 season finale will proceed as planned in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Despite ongoing regional instability—including recent missile strikes on Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport and Iranian attacks on US-linked targets in Qatar—the sport remains committed to hosting the final two races on November 27–29 and December 4–6.

Audi’s Mattia Binotto previously confirmed mid-October as the last call for this decision, yet no announcement has been made, suggesting no major shifts in the schedule’s status. While the UK government still permits travel to both countries, it warns of potential disruptions, and US officials have noted escalating risks in the region since July.

F1’s CEO Stefano Domenicali reiterated during the Bahrain Grand Prix that the calendar is confirmed, relying on ‘reassurances’ from local authorities. Teams, however, have privately acknowledged logistical challenges if travel restrictions tighten further.

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