Max Verstappen believes Formula 1 should cancel its planned season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East region. The Red Bull driver stated that when there is war nearby and countries are in conflict with each other, Formula 1 should not proceed regardless of existing contracts.
Formula 1 faces a mid-October deadline to decide whether the championship will visit the Middle East this year. The sport has already cancelled races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia earlier in the season, though Bahrain returned through an arrangement with Malaysia hosting the race on its behalf.
While Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain on the schedule as the planned finale, motorsport events globally have cancelled Middle East rounds this year as regional conflict continues. The UK Foreign Office notes heightened regional tension and unpredictable conditions, warning of potential attacks and escalation.
Should the Middle East races be cancelled, Imola stands ready as a backup venue for an unexpected European finale. Verstappen acknowledged racing at a potentially cold and wet Imola would be chaotic with rain tyres but said he would be fine with the Italian track serving as the season conclusion.