With Formula One’s 2026 season approaching its final rounds, uncertainty continues to surround the races planned in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict. Max Verstappen has shared his opinion on the situation. 

According to the current 2026 schedule, Formula One is set to make its stop at Qatar and Abu Dhabi in November and December, with Abu Dhabi being the last race of the season. However, as the US-Iran conflict continues, the sport has yet to decide whether the races should continue in the Middle East. 

While talking to the Dutch broadcaster Via Play, the four-time Formula One champion expressed concerns. 

"I usually look forward to visiting these nations, but if there’s a war close by or ongoing conflicts in neighboring countries, I simply don’t think it’s wise to go," Verstappen told Via Play, as reported by ESPN. 

He further explained that contractual commitments in such situations should not take precedence under such circumstances. 

"Then, it doesn't matter if you have a contract or not, I think. But it's not up to me"

While there have been no official announcements that the races are being shifted, according to several news outlets, Imola is a potential replacement for the season finale. 

As reported by ESPN, the Imola circuit has already started building grandstands in preparation for holding a race.  However, for the race potentially taking place in early December in Northern Italy, one needs to factor in cold temperatures and increased chances of rain and snow. 

When questioned on whether he was okay with the conditions that they might have to race in for the season finale, Max Verstappen did not hold back. 

"Yes, it will probably be very chaotic with our rain tyres. But taking everything into consideration, I'm fine with it. It's a good track." 

However, Verstappen is not the only driver to speak out against the uncertainty of the final two races of the 2026 season. 

Lewis Hamilton weighs in on racing in the Middle East 

Max Verstappen has raised his concerns about not racing in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict. Lewis Hamilton feels differently about the situation. 

In the aforementioned ESPN article, the seven-time world champion expressed that he would like to conclude the season as per the schedule. 

"I personally want to go," Hamilton said, as reported by ESPN. "I love going to the Middle East. From what I have read, things seem OK out there, but I don't have all the information, and I don't know what the risk levels are."

Hamilton further expressed his trust in F1’s leadership to make the right and necessary call. 

"I trust in [F1 CEO] Stefano [Domenicali] to make the right decision for the sport. And I do hope we get to go there."

With time running out to make the call about the final two races, the paddock has begun weighing in with its opinions. Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton might have varying views, but the ultimate decision rests with the leadership. 

Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco