The FIA and Formula 1 are looking to add at least one GP to the 2026 calendar to fill the gaps left by the cancellations of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Read more F1: South Africa advances towards possible return to the calendar
The war in the Middle East affected the category’s season, which went through April without any races. Other categories were also influenced, with the World Endurance Championship changing the season opener and MotoGP altering the date of the race in Qatar.
Now, Formula 1 is seeking alternatives to fit at least one date into the calendar, which dropped from 24 to 22 rounds – many saw the task as difficult, since after the summer break there will be 11 races in 16 weekends.
Recently, Stefano Domenicali stated that “maybe we will recover one.” According to RacingNews365, the weekend between October 2 and 4, between the Azerbaijan and Singapore GPs, is under consideration.
It is understood that from the FIA’s point of view, Bahrain is the most favorable option. However, Saudi officials are seeking a loophole to enter F1 in 2026.
Read more F1: Mekies explains how Verstappen avoided disqualification in qualifying in Miami
Additionally, a quadruple round – four consecutive GPs – is potentially being studied to close the season, despite several obstacles along the way.
The calendar would see Saudi Arabia placed between Qatar and Abu Dhabi, and in doing so, the championship finale would be pushed to a later week, on December 13.
Logistically it would be feasible, but from a human resources perspective, it could be demanding for team members. Also, it conflicts with fans who have already purchased tickets, flights, and hotels for the final in Abu Dhabi.
Read more F1: Honda talks about progress after Alonso and Stroll finish Miami GP
