F1 confirms Qatar and Abu Dhabi finales, drops Imola backup

Formula 1 has decided to go ahead with its Qatar and Abu Dhabi season finales despite the ongoing Middle East crisis. Imola has been told it will not be needed as an emergency replacement venue at the end of the season.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said both Grands Prix would proceed as planned. Formula 1 said conditions in the region had not recently deteriorated, pointing to continuing international travel, valid insurance and MotoGP's successful Qatar event the previous weekend. All 11 teams are understood to support completing the season as scheduled.

Formula 1 warned that the situation could still force a late change if it worsens before the Middle East races, with safety described as the priority.