Ankara: Formula 1 will conclude its 2026 season in Europe if the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix cannot take place due to the situation in the Middle East, announced the sport's president and CEO Stefano Domenicali on Wednesday.

According to Anadolu Agency, Domenicali made this statement during a media roundtable following the Hungarian Grand Prix. He confirmed that both races are currently scheduled, but emphasized that Formula 1 will monitor developments closely until mid-September before making any final decisions. "We will take the maximum time for us to see how the situation will develop, and we will take the decision at the right time," said Domenicali, according to the Formula 1 website.

Qatar is set to host the penultimate round from November 27 to 29, followed by the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from December 4 to 6. Domenicali stated that if conditions do not improve sufficiently, Formula 1 is prepared to relocate the season's conclusion to Europe, although he did not specify any potential replacement venues.

This uncertainty comes after the removal of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix from their original April dates due to the regional situation. In response, Formula 1 and the FIA announced that Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit would host the Bahrain Grand Prix from October 2 to 4, pending final agreements and approval from the World Motor Sport Council. The Saudi Arabian race has not yet been rescheduled.

Domenicali also mentioned that Formula 1 is preparing alternative plans for 2027 if the situation persists, while maintaining its goal of holding 24 Grands Prix.