FIA chief says Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to go ahead despite tensions

The final races of the Formula One (F1) season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will go ahead as planned despite tensions in the Middle East, the president of motorsports’ governing body Mohammed Ben Sulayem has said. The Saudi Arabia Grand Prix earlier this year was scrapped following the outbreak of the United States and Israel’s war with Iran , while the Bahrain race was delayed and moved to Malaysia.

“We are ready for Qatar and Abu Dhabi,” said Ben Sulayem, president of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), on social media on Tuesday. “We are fully prepared and committed to delivering two outstanding grands prix weekends and a spectacular conclusion to the Formula One World Championship.

“We look forward to welcoming drivers, teams and fans to two iconic circuits for an unforgettable finish to the season. See you on the grid.” F1 drivers have expressed mixed feelings about racing in the Middle East, with four-time world champion Max Verstappen among those to air his reservations.