F1 keeps Imola on standby for season finale

Formula 1 plans to hold the final two races of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, as scheduled on the calendar. However, uncertainty created by the war between the United States and Iran has cast doubt on that plan. F1 is keeping the Imola circuit in Italy on standby as a backup option for the season finale in case changes are needed.

Decision could slip to mid-November

Team bosses had said they wanted to know where the season finale would be held by mid-October. According to a report by Britain's The Telegraph, however, F1 could delay its decision on the final race until mid-November.

The same report said there was talk during the races in Malaysia and Singapore of rumors that an agreement guaranteeing security had been reached between Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Iran. Those rumors boosted F1's confidence in sticking with its plans.

Developments in the region have affected the F1 calendar before: the race in Saudi Arabia was canceled earlier this year. F1 plans to return to Saudi Arabia in March next year.