Domenicali continues to advocate for the reinstatement of the canceled Grand Prix.

      Formula 1 is preparing various contingency plans as renewed tensions in the Middle East cast uncertainty over the final months of the 2026 schedule. The sport had intended to reschedule the postponed Bahrain Grand Prix later this year, but the escalation of conflict has prompted Formula One Management to rethink their options, with Portimao and the possibility of a second race in Baku now being considered.

      Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali acknowledged at Spa that time is limited. “As an optimistic person, I would say the situation is intriguing, but from an objective standpoint, it’s complicated,” he told Sky Italia. “Our aim is to finalize the current calendar and also make up for a race we missed during the peak of the Middle East tensions. We will wait until the last possible moment, but when we reach a decision, it will be made with an awareness of the risks involved. The safety of those working in our environment and attendees at the grands prix remains our top priority. We are indeed nearing the deadline to make a decision, and clearly, we are not in the clear yet. We have multiple options available.”

      Viaplay commentator Nelson Valkenburg stated that discussions regarding Formula 1's options were taking place with the teams in Spa. “There are numerous discussions happening,” he remarked. “On Saturday, there will be a meeting between the teams and the FOM to address this issue.” Valkenburg noted that Formula 1 was on the verge of confirming a new date for Bahrain before the recent escalation in the Middle East. “That chance seems to have slipped away,” he noted. “There are also concerns regarding Qatar and Abu Dhabi.”

      He mentioned that Portimao is emerging as a potential alternative. “There are additional possibilities to hold two consecutive races in Baku, as the FOM aims to reach 21 or 22 races. This is significant for the broadcasters, and it appears to be a priority for several Formula 1 sponsors as well. They intend to postpone the end of the year for as long as possible, hoping that we can still proceed to Qatar and Abu Dhabi.”