Shanna is a Formula 1 journalist at GPblog, specializing in both F1 and endurance and GT racing. With a Master’s degree in Journalism and experience at international circuits, she provides in-depth, reliable coverage and insights based on her presence at Grands Prix and racing events worldwide.
Formula 1 will reassess whether the Grands Prix in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will go ahead after the US elections, GPblog understands. Meanwhile, a persistent rumour is circulating in the F1 paddock that an announcement will be made on 9 November confirming Imola as the replacement, but that seems a little premature.
A rumour is currently circulating in the Formula 1 paddock that Monday, 9 November, is the deadline for Imola to learn whether it will host the final Grand Prix of the season. GPblog has heard the same from several sources, although others deny that this date has already been selected for an announcement.
Imola still waiting for a final decision from Formula 1
Uncertainty over the season finale has been ongoing for months. The war in the Middle East has cast doubt over the Grands Prix in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, which are currently still scheduled for 29 November and 6 December, respectively.
GPblog previously reported that the Formula 1 teams had been assured behind the scenes that they would not have to travel to Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Instead, the season would conclude at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola. The teams have also already booked hotel rooms in the Italian region.
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Despite these preparations, FOM has not (yet) changed the calendar. This is partly due to the financial interests tied to the races in the Middle East. Cancelling the events would threaten to cost the commercial rights holder significant revenue.
FIA (still) standing by the Grands Prix in Qatar and Abu Dhabi
In a notable development, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem stressed just last week that he sees no reason to cancel the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. According to him, the safety of drivers, team members and officials is not currently at risk. He did, however, say that the FIA is prepared for a possible calendar change.
The decision has already been postponed several times in recent months. Mid-September was initially cited as the point when clarity would emerge, before the expected deadline shifted to mid-October. That date also passed without an official announcement. For now, Abu Dhabi therefore remains officially the final race of the season. The coming weeks will show whether that changes after all.
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