F1 considers European finale as discussions about the Middle East schedule proceed.

      Formula 1 is exploring increasingly bold options for the conclusion of the 2026 season amid ongoing uncertainty regarding the championship's return to the Middle East. Following recent reports indicating that Formula 1 is holding off on a decision about whether to reinstate the postponed Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, new information suggests that several contingency plans are currently being considered.

      According to Marca, Liberty Media's preferred scenario aims to reinstate Bahrain while keeping the planned races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, effectively adjusting the schedule rather than completely disregarding the Gulf region. However, the Spanish publication notes that the latest military tensions between Iran and the United States have cast further doubt on the stability of the area by November.

      Marca also reports that any decision will not be made hastily. "Due to logistics, organization, ticket sales, and travel and hotel arrangements, the decision won't be rushed and could be postponed until after the summer."

      Additionally, the newspaper highlights concerns over insurance, stating that German insurers associated with DHL, Mercedes, and Audi are reportedly reluctant to provide coverage if the region continues to be classified as an active conflict zone.

      If Formula 1 cannot return to the Gulf, several alternative conclusions are reportedly being considered. One option is a double-header in Las Vegas, with another race substituting for the canceled Middle East events. Another potential outcome is a European finale featuring Portimao and perhaps a second race at Barcelona. Austria's Osterreich mentions that these alternatives were also addressed during the Spielberg weekend.

      The newspaper indicates that if clarity is still lacking by the Belgian GP, Formula 1 may have to completely forgo plans to return to the Middle East. "DHL, Mercedes, and the teams that transport their equipment to the region by freighter are particularly against the event taking place due to safety concerns for their crew," the report states.

      Osterreich further notes that Barcelona and Portimao are appealing alternatives because neither circuit would necessitate a hosting fee, making them highly lucrative options for Formula 1. The report suggests that a final decision could be reached "in just over two weeks" to allow teams adequate time to prepare for the season's closing stages.