F1 rules out Imola as backup for season finale

Formula 1 has told Imola it will not be needed as a backup venue for the 2026 season finale, leaving Qatar and Abu Dhabi as the planned closing races. The decision, communicated to the Italian circuit and the teams on November 10, does not rule out a later change if safety conditions deteriorate, F1 said.

The championship’s schedule lists the Qatar Grand Prix for November 29 and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for December 6. The races are due to follow the Las Vegas Grand Prix on November 21. F1’s spokesperson said the Middle East had remained the plan and that the sport could not leave Imola waiting indefinitely for a decision.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said preparations were underway for the two events. In a post on Instagram, he said the FIA was working with its partners to prepare for the races and welcome drivers, teams and fans. His statement did not set out specific security arrangements.

F1 said travel advice still allowed travel to Qatar and Abu Dhabi and that travel insurance remained valid. The organization also said there had been no recent negative developments specifically affecting the two host locations. Those points reflect F1’s assessment; the reports do not...