QATAR SAYS THE RACE IS ON—F1 HAS NOT DECIDED

Qatar says preparations remain active for its Formula 1 Grand Prix on November 29, but the race is not yet guaranteed. Formula 1 is continuing to assess regional conditions and expects to make its final decision by mid-September.

Abdul Rahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, president of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation, said the country remains committed to hosting both Formula 1 and MotoGP at Lusail. He pointed to Qatar’s operational airport and return to normal daily activity as reasons the events can proceed as scheduled.

Formula 1 has taken a more cautious position. CEO Stefano Domenicali previously confirmed that the 2026 season would finish in Europe if the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds cannot be held safely. Imola has emerged as a possible alternative, although Formula 1 has not officially selected or confirmed a replacement venue.

For now, the Qatar Grand Prix remains on the calendar. Qatar is preparing to race, but the final decision—and potentially the location of the championship’s closing rounds—still belongs to Formula 1.