Formula 1 CEO confirms Abu Dhabi will host 2026 season finale

Formula 1 remains committed to holding the 2026 season finale in Abu Dhabi, chief executive Stefano Domenicali has said, easing uncertainty over the race amid continuing regional tensions.

The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is scheduled to take place at Yas Marina Circuit from December 3-6, with the race set to close out the championship.

Concerns had been raised over whether the event could be moved because of the regional situation stemming from the Iran war. F1 cancelled races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia earlier this year, while alternative venues had previously been discussed should the final Middle East rounds be unable to go ahead.

However, speaking during the Dutch Grand Prix weekend at Zandvoort, Domenicali said Formula 1 remained focused on delivering its existing calendar.

“The calendar, as I said, is confirmed so there are still a few tickets to be sold in Abu Dhabi, so everything is progressing well and we stay focused on delivering the calendar we promised at the beginning of the year,” he told Formula 1’s official website.

The confirmation keeps both the Qatar Grand Prix, scheduled for November 27-29, and the Abu Dhabi finale on the calendar.

Domenicali had previously acknowledged contingency planning around the final races of the season, with Imola among the venues reportedly considered as an alternative if the Middle East events could not take place.

Abu Dhabi preparations continue

Abu Dhabi officials and race organisers have also stressed that preparations for the December event remain on track.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said the emirate was looking forward to welcoming Formula 1 fans back for the season finale.

“Hosting Formula 1 since 2009 has been a testament to our ambition to bring the world together through exceptional experiences and major international events,” Al Hosani said.

“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix creates meaningful opportunities for our tourism, hospitality and events sectors and we are proud to build on this long-standing partnership.”

Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO of race organiser Ethara, said its focus remained on delivering the event in December.

“Preparations are progressing across every aspect of the event, and we look forward to welcoming the Formula 1 community back to Abu Dhabi,” he said.

The race weekend will again be accompanied by the Yasalam after-race concert series, with Andrea Bocelli, Zara Larsson, Lewis Capaldi and Imagine Dragons among the announced acts.

Organisers said ticket availability for the Grand Prix is now limited.