F1 Drops Imola Backup as Qatar and Abu Dhabi Races Approach

Formula 1 has dropped Imola as a backup venue for the season finale and is proceeding with plans for the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, while the FIA says it is prepared to deliver both events.

The decision to rule out a race at the Italian circuit was reported by a person briefed on the matter. The person said F1 had told Imola and the teams there would be no race at the venue. F1 and the circuit had not publicly announced the details, and the person spoke anonymously. A separate report said F1 would cover costs Imola had already incurred, but that detail was not confirmed elsewhere.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said on social media that the governing body was ready for the two races and looked forward to welcoming drivers, teams and fans. He also said the FIA was working with its partners to ensure preparations were in place. His statements did not provide details of security arrangements or independently establish how conditions would develop.

The Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled for November 29, followed by the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 6. The races are expected to conclude the 2026 season. The decision follows the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and...