F1 Rules Out Ending 2026 in Imola, Advances Plans for Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

November 10, 2026

Formula 1 informed Imola that it will not be required to host the final race of the 2026 season, as plans are to continue with the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix.

The Italian track had been floated as a substitute for the season’s final race in case the Middle East conflict forced the category to cancel the last two rounds of the championship. The date in Italy would have been December 4-6, the Abu Dhabi weekend.

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Charles Leclerc (MON) Ferrari SF-25.

Now, that scenario has been ruled out. Both Imola and the teams have already been informed of Formula 1’s decision.

The circuit located in Emilia-Romagna had been floated as an option for the calendar to continue with at least 22 rounds. Thus, it would fulfill broadcasting commitments if the Qatar and Abu Dhabi events fell through.

Jake Thompson

Jake Thompson

I'm Jake Thompson, a motorsport journalist born and raised in North Carolina, where NASCAR weekends were basically family holidays. I’ve been covering everything from Formula 1 to rally raids for over a decade, blending sharp analysis with a fan’s heart. For me, writing about racing isn’t just a job — it’s the best seat in the house.