Imola ruled out as F1 keeps Qatar and Abu Dhabi on schedule

Formula 1 has ruled out Imola as a replacement venue for the final races of the 2026 season, leaving the planned trips to Qatar and Abu Dhabi in place for now. The decision comes as the sport continues to monitor the conflict in the Middle East and its effect on travel and event safety.

Imola had been kept in reserve as a possible venue if the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds could not go ahead. The circuit was due a final answer on 10 November about whether it needed to prepare for a Grand Prix in December. F1 has now confirmed its services will not be required.

The decision means the season is currently set to close with the Las Vegas, Qatar Grand Prix and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix triple-header. Travel insurance and government travel guidance are currently allowing the events to proceed, but F1 has not ruled out a change if the situation deteriorates.

F1 has no replacement ready if the situation worsens

The conflict began in late February, after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran. Its impact has already reached the F1 calendar: the Saudi Arabian race was cancelled, while Bahrain’s round was postponed and moved to Malaysia. Our coverage of Sepang’s role as Bahrain’s replacement venue details that calendar change.

The series has been assessing the situation closely. Lusail hosted its MotoGP round last weekend without major problems, although both Yamaha teams withdrew because of the geopolitical situation. F1’s current plan is to continue with its scheduled races, while putting the safety of people travelling to them first.

The possibility of Imola stepping in had been reported as uncertainty grew around the Middle East rounds. Read more about how the circuit entered the conversation in our report on Imola emerging as a 2026 finale option. With that option now closed, no alternative is identified in the current plan if the final races cannot go ahead.

Team principals say they will follow F1 and FIA guidance

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur said he wants to race but would travel wherever the sport directs teams. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said F1 and the FIA are following international guidance, including travel restrictions, airline operations and warnings from local governments.

Wolff said the situation would continue to be monitored and that F1 leadership would act to protect people if the risks increased. He also stressed that individuals who are uncomfortable travelling should be respected. For now, the races remain scheduled; any escalation could change that assessment.