Trump wants to bomb Iran again: major concerns over the F1 finale in Abu Dhabi

Iran had proposed a seven-day plan to end the war, but according to US officials, Trump did not engage with it. The president is said to be reluctant to launch any new large-scale military operations before the elections.

How extensive any new strikes might be remains unclear, while his stance could still change depending on factors including the outcome of the midterms, the sources say.

The timing is highly unfavourable for Formula 1. The calendar still features the Qatar Grand Prix on November 29 and the season finale in Abu Dhabi on December 6. If airstrikes resume after the November 3 elections, it would coincide with preparations for teams, staff and freight heading to the Gulf region.

F1 has already felt the impact of the conflict in the Middle East. The races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were scrapped in April due to the situation in the region. “Although this was a difficult decision, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage, given the current situation in the Middle East,” Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said at the time.

Officially, Formula 1 is sticking with races at the Lusail International Circuit and Yas Marina. During the press conference, Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu revealed that the F1 Commission had set mid-October as the deadline for a decision.

The sport wants to wait as long as possible before making any changes to its plans. If an alternative is needed, Imola is considered the favourite to host the season finale.

There is plenty at stake. Kimi Antonelli leads the championship after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix by 66 points from Mercedes team-mate George Russell, with eight races remaining. If Qatar and Abu Dhabi are cancelled, fewer points would be available, which could significantly affect the title fight.