Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have taken completely opposite stances on whether Formula 1 should race in Qatar and Abu Dhabi to finish the 2026 season. Speaking ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the Red Bull driver made his position crystal clear, saying he thinks the sport shouldn't head to the Middle East while there's an active conflict in the region. The Ferrari driver, meanwhile, is all for sticking to the original plan and heading out there as scheduled.

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Verstappen's concern isn't about the host countries themselves, he's quick to point out. It's the geopolitical situation surrounding them that's got him worried. In his chat with Dutch broadcaster Viaplay, he said that normally he's happy to race in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, but with a war brewing nearby and countries in conflict with each other, the sport should pump the brakes. He made clear it shouldn't come down to whatever's written in a contract. Fair point from Max, though he acknowledged it's not his call to make.

Hamilton's taking a more optimistic view of things. The seven-time world champion told press in Baku that he'd love to see the season finish in the Middle East as planned, admitting though that he doesn't have all the facts. He's putting his faith in F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali to make the right call for the sport. While Hamilton's reading of the situation seems positive, official government advice from the UK is way more cautious, describing the region as unpredictable with recent drone strikes hitting several countries.

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There's a proper backup plan ready to go if needed. Imola in Italy is standing by to host the finale on December 6th if Qatar and Abu Dhabi get cancelled. Verstappen reckons that wouldn't be a problem either, even if December racing in northern Italy means cold temps and likely rain or snow. He's fine with it, calling Imola a good track. Sure, the wet weather could make things chaotic with the rain tyres, but he's not worried about stepping in as the backup.

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F1's officially still gunning for the Middle East races despite most governments telling their citizens to stay away. The decision will come down in mid-October, so there's still some time before we know which way this goes. For now, the paddock's heading to Sepang this weekend for the relocated Bahrain Grand Prix, but this 2026 finale saga is definitely one to keep an eye on.

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