FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has delivered the clearest public assurance yet that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix will go ahead as planned, pushing back against lingering doubts created by earlier Middle East calendar disruptions. Speaking candidly about safety and personal circumstances, Ben Sulayem insisted there is currently no reason to alter the final two races of the 2026 season.
The comments provide important stability as Formula 1 enters the decisive phase of the championship.
### BEN SULAYEM ADDRESSES THE SAFETY QUESTION DIRECTLY
The FIA president was asked about the viability of racing in the region following the earlier cancellation of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the relocation of the Bahrain event to Sepang. His response left little ambiguity.
“Yeah, fine. One thing I would say: I have my children there [in the UAE]. You think I would leave them there and I’m here now with you if it was dangerous? You have to be sensible in this.”
Ben Sulayem drew a distinction between media coverage and the situation on the ground, stating that what is often portrayed externally does not match the reality experienced by those living and working in the region. He added that he cannot predict the future, but as of now the two races are proceeding.
“Does this say that there is nothing that is going to happen? I can’t predict this. I can only tell you today that there is nothing and the two races are going to happen.”
### PERSONAL STAKES UNDERLINE THE MESSAGE
By referencing his own family, Ben Sulayem sought to ground the discussion in practical terms rather than abstract risk assessments. He reinforced the point when asked specifically about FIA staff travelling to the events.
“I am happy, yes of course. Listen, I don’t think the FIA staff would be more important to me than myself or my family. But if I am there it means I feel secure about this.”
The same principle, he noted, applies more broadly: the FIA will not knowingly place staff, drivers or officials in situations it considers unsafe.
### WHY THE ASSURANCE MATTERS NOW
The 2026 calendar has already been reshaped by geopolitical events. Losing two further races at the end of the season would create significant commercial, logistical and sporting complications. Teams have planned freight, personnel rotations and championship strategies around the existing schedule. Drivers’ title calculations, particularly with Kimi Antonelli holding a commanding lead, also depend on the full complement of remaining rounds.
By speaking so directly, Ben Sulayem has attempted to close down speculation and allow the paddock to focus on the races still to come: the United States Grand Prix this weekend, followed by Mexico, Brazil, Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
### THE BROADER CONTEXT OF CALENDAR RISK
Formula 1 has spent recent seasons expanding into new markets while navigating an increasingly complex global environment. The earlier loss of the Saudi race and the forced move of Bahrain demonstrated that no venue is entirely insulated from external events. At the same time, the sport’s leadership has consistently argued that decisions must be based on current, specific intelligence rather than generalised perceptions of risk.
Ben Sulayem’s intervention fits that approach. He did not claim permanent immunity from disruption; he stated that, on the information available today, the final two races remain viable and will take place.
### WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Attention now turns to the circuit. The United States Grand Prix marks the beginning of the final stretch. Beyond that, the Americas triple-header and the Las Vegas event will set the stage for the Middle East finale. Provided conditions remain stable, Qatar and Abu Dhabi will close the championship as originally intended.
For teams, drivers and fans, the FIA president’s comments remove one major source of uncertainty. In a season already defined by unexpected calendar changes, that clarity is valuable. The races, for now, are on.
