F1 plans Qatar and Abu Dhabi races amid regional security concerns

Formula 1 plans to hold its final two 2026 races in Qatar on Nov. 29 and Abu Dhabi on Dec. 6 as scheduled, despite continuing conflict and regional security concerns. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the governing body is prepared and working with partners but gave no details about security arrangements. The Bahrain Grand Prix was moved to Malaysia and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix canceled because of the conflict. Imola had been considered as a backup, but the deadline to use it has passed. F1 says safety remains the priority and it could change its plans if conditions worsen; drivers have expressed mixed views about racing in the region.