Story perspectives

Hamilton backs F1 races in Qatar, Abu Dhabi despite risks

By Drooid · Sep 23, 2026, 11:56 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Hamilton Hopes Finale

Lewis Hamilton hopes the season will finish with races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, UAE.
He trusts F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali to decide what’s best for the sport.
Hamilton says he lacks full information on Middle East race risk levels.
Bahrain Grand Prix moves to 4 October at Malaysia’s Sepang Circuit.
Tickets remain on sale for Qatar and Abu Dhabi despite the United States-Iran conflict.

Summary

Wolff Defends Hamilton

Toto Wolff said Lewis Hamilton was okay after 2021 Abu Dhabi race, noting his kite-surfing.
Wolff blamed Hamilton’s 2023 winless season on an unpredictable car, not reduced skill.
Eighteen-year-old Rashid Al Dhaheri became the first Emirati to lead the FIA Formula Regional standings.
Al Dhaheri earned three wins, eight podiums, a pole and finished fourth, 38 points behind champion Emanuele Olivieri.
Al Dhaheri will race the Macau Grand Prix World Cup 19-22 November.

History

Historical Context

The Bahrain Grand Prix debuted on 4 April 2004 at the Bahrain International Circuit, the Middle East’s first Formula 1 race and winner of the FIA’s Best Organised Grand Prix award. Its success led to the UAE Grand Prix in 2009, but political unrest cancelled the 2011 race and prompted a 2020 double-header. Those precedents influence today’s schedule debates with Lewis Hamilton and FIA officials.

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Hamilton Hopes Finale

Lewis Hamilton hopes the season will finish with races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, UAE.
He trusts F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali to decide what’s best for the sport.
Hamilton says he lacks full information on Middle East race risk levels.
Bahrain Grand Prix moves to 4 October at Malaysia’s Sepang Circuit.
Tickets remain on sale for Qatar and Abu Dhabi despite the United States-Iran conflict.

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