Ben Sulayem says Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix remain on schedule

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem says the governing body’s current position is for the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix to go ahead as scheduled, keeping them on course to close the 2026 Formula 1 season.

In an interview with The National, Ben Sulayem said each event is assessed separately, weighing the latest safety advice, travel conditions, operational requirements and information from the relevant authorities. He said the FIA was monitoring developments in the Middle East and working with national authorities, member clubs, FOM, teams and other stakeholders. Safety for everyone involved in FIA championships, he said, remains the federation’s highest priority.

The two races are scheduled for November 29 and December 6. Imola had prepared to stand by as a possible replacement for Abu Dhabi, but FOM told the Italian circuit those preparations were no longer needed.