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FIA boss insists Qatar and Abu Dhabi F1 races “are going to happen”

Formula 1 president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to hosting the 2026 season finale in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, despite escalating tensions in the Middle East. The races, scheduled for November 8 in Qatar and December 6 in Abu Dhabi, remain on track after Ben Sulayem dismissed concerns about regional instability, citing personal assurances and on-the-ground security.

He emphasized that the FIA would never expose staff, drivers, or officials to unnecessary risk, while acknowledging contingency plans—including Imola as a potential backup venue—remain in place. Separately, MotoGP has also received confirmation that the Qatar Grand Prix will proceed as planned, following guarantees from local authorities.

The UK’s recent deployment of RAF Typhoon jets to Saudi Arabia in response to Houthi missile attacks adds to the geopolitical backdrop, though Ben Sulayem stressed that media reports often exaggerate the actual threats faced by visitors to the region.

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FIA adamant Qatar and Abu Dhabi GPs will go ahead