Max Verstappen has clarified his position regarding Formula 1’s scheduled season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. The four-time world champion stated he never refused to compete in these events, despite previously voicing concerns over regional conflict.
In September, Verstappen informed Viaplay that Formula 1 “shouldn’t go” to the final two rounds if neighbouring countries remained in conflict. He emphasized this stance regardless of existing contractual obligations.
Verstappen stated, “Normally I am happy to go to Qatar and Abu Dhabi, but you know, when there is a war nearby, and if some of the countries are in conflict with each other, then I think we shouldn’t go.”
He added that contractual commitments should not take precedence in such situations, but acknowledged the decision was not his to make.
The 2026 Formula 1 season has already seen significant calendar adjustments due to Middle East tensions. The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was cancelled earlier in the year.
The Bahrain Grand Prix, originally slated for April, was relocated. It took place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia on October 4, 2026.
The event was officially named the “Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026.” This naming convention was maintained due to existing funding and contractual agreements.
Sepang was selected for its logistical advantages and prior experience hosting Formula 1 events. The circuit is located near Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
The ongoing conflict, which commenced in March, has continued to raise safety concerns within the sport. Recent attacks in Iran and Saudi Arabia have prompted discussions regarding the final two rounds.
These incidents include renewed fighting between the United States and Iran, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. Missile attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebel group have also targeted Saudi infrastructure.
Reports indicate that King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh was among the targets, resulting in casualties.
Formula 1 is preparing the Imola circuit as a contingency venue for the season finale. This would occur on December 6 if the scheduled races cannot proceed.
Grandstands are currently being constructed at Imola in anticipation of this potential requirement. Formula 1 has committed to covering these preparation costs.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has maintained that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races “are going to happen.”
Ben Sulayem stated the FIA would not expose its staff, drivers, or officials to undue risk. He also suggested that media portrayals of the regional situation differ from the reality on the ground.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali previously confirmed that the calendar remained as planned, with Qatar and Abu Dhabi as the preferred option.
The sport’s management expects the races to proceed unless circumstances necessitate a change.
Initial deadlines for a definitive decision, set for mid-September and then mid-October, have passed without an official announcement of cancellation.
When questioned about a potential boycott, Verstappen reiterated his trust in the sport’s governing bodies. He stated, “I trust that F1 and then the FIA will take the right decision because they will have more information than us, and that’s what we rely on.”
Lewis Hamilton, another prominent driver, expressed a different view in September. He indicated he was “happy to race in the region,” believing conditions appeared acceptable.
A December race in Imola could present challenges, including cold temperatures and increased chances of rain or snow.
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu highlighted operational hurdles, noting that European motorhome personnel typically have winter employment.
However, Audi boss Mattia Binotto dismissed concerns about snow. He noted that average December temperatures in Imola are higher than those experienced during the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The final rounds of the 2026 F1 season are scheduled for Qatar on November 27-29 and Abu Dhabi on December 4-6.
