F1 Today | Imola stood down as F1 prepares for Middle East finale while Ocon speaks out over Haas exit
Ben Hunt is an award-winning motorsport journalist with over two decades of experience in Formula 1 and international media. As a former editor-in-chief and bestselling author, he delivers in-depth analysis and strategic insight from the highest level of the sport.
F1 has made the decision to stand Imola down in their preparations to step in and host a race at the end of the season, implying that the championship will head to Qatar and Abu Dhabi as planned. The news heads the list for today's updates.
Track told to halt F1 preparations as Gulf double-header edges closer
Photo: RacePictures.
Formula 1 is preparing to keep its season-ending races in the Middle East, with Qatar scheduled for 29 November and Abu Dhabi for 6 December.
The series is expected to halt contingency preparations at Imola, while Las Vegas remains the fallback if the Gulf races cannot go ahead.
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Ocon shares emotional message after being let go by Haas
Esteban Ocon thanked fans, colleagues and former colleagues for their support after Haas decided not to retain him for 2026.
The Frenchman was replaced by Ryo Hirakawa for the rest of the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, while Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu had to decide when the situation had gone far enough.
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Hamilton makes feelings clear with one-word verdict on Alonso overtake
Photo: Race Pictures
Starting 20th at Interlagos, Lewis Hamilton gained 11 places on the opening lap before struggling as his Ferrari became difficult to manage on deteriorating intermediate tyres.
Fernando Alonso passed him around the outside at Ferradura on Lap 10 to take 13th, while Hamilton later spun when rain made Turn 1 much wetter than he expected.
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Lawson delivers clear message to Red Bull amid uncertain F1 future
Photo: Red Bull Content Pool
Liam Lawson’s seventh-place finish at Interlagos, after qualifying third in difficult conditions, strengthened his bid to stay with Racing Bulls in 2027.
The team has yet to confirm its line-up, with Lawson competing against teammate Arvid Lindblad and Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov as the season enters its final three races.
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