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Hamilton Gives Thumbs up to Gulf GPs Despite Iran Conflict
On Wednesday, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton said he 'hopes' Formula 1 proceeds with the scheduled 2026 season finale in the Middle East despite the ongoing United States-Iran conflict.
Escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran in the Gulf have created significant uncertainty regarding the climax of the 2026 season, with races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi at risk.
UK Foreign Office advice warns the situation 'remains unpredictable' with a 'risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation,' contributing to unease among the 2,000-strong traveling circus where 10 of 11 teams are based in the UK.
Formula 1 is delaying its final decision on the season's conclusion while preparing contingency plans to hold the final races in Europe, specifically at Imola, if necessary.
Next year's 24-race calendar is set to begin in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, though 41-year-old Briton Hamilton recently criticized the sport's current race formula and changes to the Monaco circuit.