F1 has a contingency plan in place in case Qatar or Abu Dhabi are canceled.

      "Formula 1 is not like a football match"

      Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali stated that the sport has contingency plans in place should rising tensions in the Middle East lead to the cancellation of the season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. His remarks come amid ongoing uncertainty regarding the geopolitical climate in the Gulf region, despite repeated claims from US President Donald Trump suggesting a potential agreement may be imminent. Recent airstrikes by the US on Iran and renewed threats concerning the Strait of Hormuz have raised significant doubts about the speed at which any resolution might be achieved.

      In an interview with the French newspaper L’Equipe, Domenicali confirmed that Formula 1 is closely monitoring the situation. "Like during the COVID-19 pandemic, we must strive to act as pragmatically as possible," he stated. "The cancellation of the races in Bahrain and Jeddah was due to our understanding that hosting those Grands Prix at that time would be unfeasible. We are an entertainment sport that aims to bring joy and enjoyment. We need to go to locations where such an atmosphere can exist."

      Domenicali acknowledged that organizers are approaching a crucial point regarding decisions for the final races of the year. "Promoters in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are already selling tickets, and the sales are going exceptionally well," he noted. "However, the time will come when we need to make a decision."

      The F1 chief emphasized that replacing races is significantly more complex than in most other sports. "Formula 1 is not like a football match with just two teams and 22 players," Domenicali remarked. "For us, organizing a Grand Prix is a logistical and expensive venture. Postponing even a single race would be challenging, as there are limited available slots on the calendar."

      Nevertheless, he made it clear that the championship is already preparing alternatives if necessary. "I can confirm that we have a contingency plan," Domenicali stated. "If the two races at the end of the year are canceled due to ongoing conflicts, we will have other options."

      Importantly, Domenicali stated that the Las Vegas GP will not become the season finale should Qatar and Abu Dhabi be removed from the calendar. "No, Las Vegas will not be the last race on the calendar," he confirmed.