FIA keeps Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix on schedule despite Iran war
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Sowetan
The International Automobile Federation plans to hold the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix as scheduled on 29 November and 6 December, despite the war with Iran. Its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, said he could not predict how the situation would develop and noted that alternatives were planned for staff, according to his comments to the press.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) is keeping the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grands Prix, scheduled for 29 November and 6 December 2026, despite the war in Iran and tensions in the Gulf, its president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said on Tuesday.
The Lusail circuit will host the Qatar Grand Prix, followed by the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina circuit. The FIA president said he could not predict how the situation would develop, but assured that there was currently no reason to cancel either race. Alternatives are planned for staff members who may be unable to travel.
The FIA has, however, cancelled the World Championship rally scheduled in Saudi Arabia from 11 to 14 November. The Dakar Rally, held entirely in the kingdom in January, is also under threat from intensifying attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels on Saudi cities, airports and energy infrastructure. Several golf, cycling and tennis competitions have already been cancelled or postponed.
Summary produced with the help of artificial intelligence tools, under AFREEQUE’s editorial responsibility.
