Hamilton backs Qatar and Abu Dhabi as 2026 F1 season finale; Verstappen cites safety

Lewis Hamilton has backed Qatar and Abu Dhabi as venues for the closing races of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Max Verstappen, by contrast, has pointed to geopolitical safety concerns. The split between two of the sport's most prominent drivers comes as Formula 1 team principals face a deadline to settle the matter by mid-October.\n\nHamilton, who drives for Ferrari, has spoken in favour of keeping the Gulf races on the calendar, according to reporting by MotorBiscuit. Verstappen has taken a more cautious line, citing the security and stability situation in the wider region as a reason for concern.\n\nThe two Gulf events sit at the end of the schedule. Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi has hosted a Formula 1 race since 2009 and has often staged the season finale. Lusail International Circuit in Qatar has been a regular fixture in recent years, and Qatar's agreement with Formula 1 runs for several more seasons. Both venues have built their place in the championship on the sport's expansion into the Gulf.\n\nThe decision rests with the team principals, who have until mid-October to reach a conclusion. Drivers have voiced their views publicly, but the choice of where and how the final rounds are run will be taken by the teams and the sport's organisers. The reported comments from Hamilton and Verstappen show how differently drivers are weighing the same question ahead of that deadline. No final decision has been reported so far.