Formula 1 prepares contingency plan for Middle East races, CEO Domenicali confirms
Formula One Prepares Contingency Plan for Middle East Races Amid Regional Tensions
Formula One has a contingency plan in place in the event that its season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi cannot go ahead due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, CEO Stefano Domenicali revealed in a statement on Tuesday. However, the Italian chief emphasized that there is currently no indication of disruptions to the schedule.
"We don’t have this kind of signal and so we are really hoping not," Domenicali remarked. "So I don’t want to even think about it, mainly for the bigger picture and not for the racing itself ... and of course, in case of, we have a plan. But let’s hope this will not be even thinkable."
Key Races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi Under Scrutiny
The Qatar Grand Prix, scheduled for November 30, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit, set for December 7, are pivotal fixtures on the Formula One calendar, often serving as title-deciding events. However, recent developments in the Middle East have drawn scrutiny.
Tensions escalated following Iran’s response to the U.S. participation in Israel’s recent air operations, which included missile launches at a U.S. airbase in Qatar. These hostilities have caused disruptions throughout the region, including interruptions to airline services and temporary airspace closures in some countries.
Daily Communication With Race Promoters
Given these developments, Formula One has maintained daily communication with race promoters in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Domenicali noted that the organizers remain "relaxed" but added that the unfolding situation is being closely monitored.
If alternative arrangements become necessary, Domenicali outlined potential backup plans, including the possibility of shifting races to circuits with better weather conditions in early December.
"Europe is big, the temperatures are quite mild in certain areas," he said. "Definitely we cannot go in places where there will be snow."
Portugal’s Algarve circuit, which successfully hosted races during the COVID-19 pandemic, is among the leading candidates. Domenicali also floated the idea of holding both replacement races at a single circuit if required. Nevertheless, he downplayed the likelihood of resorting to these options.
Confidence in the Championship Schedule
"We are not worried at all that this will have an effect on the championship," he added.
The Formula One community is no stranger to operating in regions under tension. In 2022, the sport controversially raced in Saudi Arabia despite missile attacks on an oil facility near the Jeddah Street Circuit by Yemen’s Houthi forces. Domenicali underscored, however, that the decision was based on assurances of safety, while acknowledging that circumstances can change rapidly in geopolitically volatile regions.
"We just need to be always ready and monitor the situation," he said.
The Triple-Header Finale
For now, Formula One's focus remains on its planned triple-header conclusion: the spectacle at the all-new Las Vegas Grand Prix on November 22, followed by the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Teams are already preparing for the logistical challenge, with cars expected to be flown directly from the United States to the Middle East.
As racing fans wait nervously to see if the uncertainty in the region impacts the tightly packed calendar, Domenicali’s stance offers some reassurance. For Formula One, preparations for the end of the season continue, but the organization remains vigilant.
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