Formula 1 2026 Season Could End in Europe Instead of Las Vegas

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 2026 — Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has confirmed that Las Vegas will not host the season finale if the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix are cancelled due to the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East.

Speaking about the revised 2026 Formula 1 calendar, Domenicali said Formula 1 will wait until mid-September before making a final decision regarding the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races, both currently scheduled for the closing weeks of the season.

He stressed that the championship is closely monitoring regional developments and does not want to make a premature decision while the security situation continues to evolve.

Should both Middle Eastern races be called off, Formula 1 plans to conclude the season at a European circuit rather than staging an additional race in Las Vegas.

According to Domenicali, the idea of holding two races in Las Vegas was considered but ultimately rejected in order to preserve the exclusivity and commercial value of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

He explained that adding another race at the same venue could diminish the event’s unique appeal while creating additional logistical and scheduling challenges.

Among the circuits reportedly being evaluated is Italy’s Imola, alongside several other European venues capable of hosting a Formula 1 race on short notice if required.

However, weather conditions remain a major consideration, as late-season races in Europe could face cold temperatures and unpredictable conditions.

The 2026 Formula 1 calendar has already undergone significant adjustments following the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to regional security concerns.

As part of the revised schedule, the Bahrain Grand Prix has been relocated to Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit, marking Formula 1’s long-awaited return to Malaysia for the first time since 2017.

Domenicali reiterated that the safety of drivers, teams, officials and fans remains Formula 1’s highest priority, and any calendar changes will be based on comprehensive security assessments rather than commercial considerations.

He added that Formula 1 remains committed to completing the championship while ensuring the integrity of the sporting calendar is maintained.

The possibility of a European season finale has generated significant interest among fans, particularly as it could mark one of the most unusual endings to a Formula 1 season in recent history.

With several weeks remaining before a final decision, teams and organisers continue preparing for multiple scenarios as Formula 1 navigates one of its most challenging calendar revisions in recent years.

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