Formula 1 teams expect to learn by mid-October whether the season-ending Qatar and Abu Dhabi races will proceed as scheduled.

Formula 1 has authorized Imola to begin constructing grandstands and making race preparations as uncertainty continues over the scheduled season finale in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. The Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari serves as the backup plan should ongoing Middle East unrest force cancellation of the final two races.

Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain the preferred option for concluding the 2026 season, with Formula One Management emphasizing these races still constitute plan A. However, the sport must prepare contingencies given continued regional instability that could necessitate last-minute changes to the calendar.

The decision timeline has shifted from CEO Stefano Domenicali's initial mid-September target to mid-October, according to multiple team principals. Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu acknowledged the mid-October timeframe during Thursday's press conference in Baku, while Audi's Mattia Binotto confirmed the deadline emerged from F1 Commission discussions.

Formula One Management will cover all associated costs and financial risks for Imola preparations, ensuring the venue faces no monetary exposure regardless of whether the race takes place. The potential Imola race would occur on the first weekend of December if needed.