Formula One will proceed with its scheduled season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, organizers announced Tuesday, despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The sport's leadership had considered Italy's Imola circuit as a backup venue following escalation of hostilities in February involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed confidence that security risks would not prevent the races from taking place. The Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled for November 29, with the final round in Abu Dhabi on December 6.
"Imola has been informed they will not be required as a back-up for the end of the season, and we have informed the teams," Formula One said in a statement. "Imola was only an option in the event we didn't go to the Middle East. We could not have left Imola waiting indefinitely."
While the prospect of Italian rookie Kimi Antonelli potentially participating in a 'lap of honour' in Imola, near his birthplace, was considered, the financial implications of the Middle Eastern races are significant, estimated at £120 million between Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
The plan remains subject to change should regional hostilities intensify, but the sport's leadership is reportedly determined to hold the events as scheduled.
Ben Sulayem, an Emirati and former rally driver, stated, "We are ready for Qatar and Abu Dhabi. We are fully prepared and committed to delivering two outstanding grands prix weekends and a spectacular conclusion to the Formula One world championship. We look forward to welcoming drivers, teams and fans to two iconic circuits for an unforgettable finish to the season. See you on the grid."
This decision follows the relocation of the Bahrain Grand Prix, originally set for April, to Malaysia last month due to Iranian attacks on the kingdom's US military bases.