Carlos Sainz reportedly walks back doubts over Qatar, Abu Dhabi GPs

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz has reportedly softened earlier doubts about racing in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, easing concern over two of the final rounds of the Formula 1 season. The reports do not set out the full detail of his original reservations or of the revised position, and neither Formula 1 nor the organisers have been cited here as changing the schedule.

Sainz, who drives for Williams after leaving Ferrari ahead of the 2025 season, is one of the grid's most experienced drivers and a race winner. Any hint that a driver might hesitate over a fixture draws attention, because the Qatar Grand Prix at the Lusail International Circuit and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit are both part of the Gulf leg that closes the championship. Abu Dhabi has hosted the season finale since 2009, and Qatar returned to the calendar in 2021 under a long-term agreement with Formula 1.

For residents of Qatar and the UAE, the practical stakes are tickets, hotel reservations, travel and hospitality plans built around race weekends. Fans who have already booked will want clarity, but a driver's reported comments are not an official change to the calendar. Any decision on the events would come from Formula 1, the FIA and the host promoters. Qatar Standard will update this report as official statements are issued.