Driver Lewis Hamilton supports Formula 1 races in Qatar and the UAE — The National

Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton has supported holding the final rounds of the 2026 Formula 1 season in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The race at the Lusail circuit is scheduled for November 29, while the season finale at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi is set for December 6, The National reports.

Hamilton's position

The seven-time world champion said ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix that he would like to travel to the Middle Eastern rounds. Hamilton, who has won five times at the Abu Dhabi circuit, noted that he loves the Middle East.

According to the driver, based on the information he has read, the situation in the region appears normal, although he does not have all the data on the level of risks. He added that he trusts Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali to make the decision for the sport and hopes the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will take place.

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Season calendar

Doubts about the Middle Eastern rounds have arisen due to regional tensions amid the war with Iran, as well as after the cancellation of this year's races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. According to the publication, a backup option to hold the final round in Italy's Imola has been provided in case the situation in the region worsens.

At the same time, Domenicali said last month that the season calendar had been confirmed and the organization was focused on delivering it. He also said that preparations for the Abu Dhabi round were continuing according to plan. Local promoters in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are continuing preparations for the competitions, while a post-race concert program has already been announced in the UAE capital.