Formula 1 set to finish 2026 season in Abu Dhabi

The 2026 Formula 1 season is still scheduled to conclude in Abu Dhabi, despite the cancellation of Saudi Arabia’s race and the relocation of Bahrain’s event. The plan keeps the championship’s final two rounds in the Middle East, although their staging remains dependent on security guarantees.

Bahrain was due to host its Grand Prix on 12 April, but geopolitical conditions in the region led to its postponement and eventual move to Sepang in Malaysia, where it is being held this weekend. Saudi Arabia, which was due to follow Bahrain, has not been given a replacement date and will not take place. The remaining schedule lists Qatar for 29 November and Abu Dhabi for 6 December, after the Las Vegas race on 21 November.

Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali has confirmed that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds remain the organisation’s chosen plan for the end of the year. Imola had been considered as an alternative venue for one of the final races, but no European replacement has been selected. The two Middle Eastern events are estimated to generate €120 million together, making cancellation a significant financial issue. Formula 1 therefore intends to preserve both dates while monitoring whether the required safety conditions remain in place.

The disruption has already affected other major championships in the region. The World Rally Championship’s Saudi Arabian finale was cancelled, leaving Sardinia to host the season’s last round. The World Endurance Championship will finish at Monza on 8 November instead of Bahrain, while Qatar’s 24 October endurance race has also been cancelled. MotoGP’s Qatar event, scheduled for 8 November, remains on its calendar.