Formula One has a strategy in place to continue the races if the season-ending events in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are disrupted by conflicts in the Middle East, according to chief executive Stefano Domenicali on Tuesday.
The Italian pointed out that there is no current worry about these races being canceled.
Qatar is set to host the second-to-last race of the championship on November 30, followed by Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina on December 7, which has often been a deciding race for the championship title.
Last month, Iran reacted to U.S. involvement in Israel’s air strikes against Iran by launching missiles at a U.S. airbase located in Qatar, just across the Gulf from Iran.
Airline services in the Middle East have faced major disruptions, with some countries temporarily closing their airspace.
Domenicali stated that Formula One is in daily communication with promoters in the Middle East, who he described as remaining calm while closely watching the situation.
“It’s tough to make a statement about that,” he said when asked if he believed there was a real risk of the races being canceled.
“So far, we haven’t received any signals indicating that, and we’re really hoping it won’t happen. I prefer not to think about it, especially considering the bigger picture beyond just racing… and of course, we do have a plan in case we need it.
“But let’s stay optimistic and hope that’s not even a possibility.”
Qatar and Abu Dhabi are set to be the final two races in a series of three consecutive weekends starting with Las Vegas on November 22, after which the cars will be flown directly to the Middle East.
Although December weather might complicate hosting replacement races at certain European tracks, there are warmer alternatives like Portugal’s Algarve circuit, which was used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Europe is large, and some areas have mild temperatures,” Domenicali noted, adding that one track could potentially host both races. “We definitely can’t go to places where snow may fall.”
“But like I mentioned, that’s not even on my mind right now.
“We’re not at all concerned that this will impact the championship.”
In 2022, Formula One held a race in Saudi Arabia even though Yemen’s Houthis attacked an oil facility close to the Jeddah street circuit.
Domenicali explained that Formula One went ahead with the race because they were confident in safety guarantees, but he acknowledged that circumstances can change quickly.
“We just have to stay prepared and keep an eye on what’s happening,” he stated.
