FIA expects Qatar and Abu Dhabi races to proceed

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said on October 20 that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix were expected to proceed as scheduled, while cautioning that he could not predict how conditions might develop. The two races are planned as the final events of the 2026 Formula One season, amid instability in the Middle East. Qatar’s Lusail circuit is scheduled to host the race on November 29, followed by Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina on December 6. Ben Sulayem said there was currently no reason to abandon either event and that he would be comfortable sending FIA staff to the region. His remarks expressed confidence in the present plans, not a guarantee that the races will take place. Asked whether his assessment meant nothing could happen before the races, Ben Sulayem said he could not predict the future. He said his children remained in the United Arab Emirates and cited his own presence there as an indication of his confidence in current conditions. He also said the FIA would not send staff, drivers or officials somewhere it considered risky. The FIA has prepared backup personnel in case travel restrictions prevent officials from reaching an event, Ben Sulayem said. He described having...