Liberty Media’s chief executive, Derek Chang, stated that F1 leaders are “diligently laboring” to develop alternative strategies for the championship’s events in the Middle East, considering multiple possibilities dependent on the conflict in Iran.
Formula 1 had to cancel its scheduled two races in April, held in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, due to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, raising additional uncertainties about the ultimate composition of the 2026 season’s schedule.
The prevailing circumstances in the Middle East have necessitated F1’s creation of diverse backup plans, contingent on the timeline and manner of the conflict’s resolution. Under the most favorable conditions, a return to either Bahrain or Jeddah might be possible, with the open weekend situated between the Baku and Singapore races in September appearing to be the sole practical slot to avoid additional scheduling conflicts.
Given that Abu Dhabi is contractually obligated to host the Formula 1 season’s concluding race on December 6th, the championship might consider adjusting its schedule by one week to insert a Grand Prix between the Qatar and Yas Marina events. However, such a change would result in an unparalleled sequence of four consecutive races, including Las Vegas, intensifying an already demanding series of competitions.
This projection relies entirely on the most positive resolution in Iran; however, given the apparent lack of a concrete strategy among the parties involved, Formula 1 must also factor in a pessimistic scenario where its Qatar and Abu Dhabi events could become doubtful if the hostilities persist.
Nevertheless, the truth remains that while F1 has an obligation to its shareholders, financial backers, and participating teams to prepare for every conceivable eventuality, the conditions in the Middle East are currently too unstable to discuss the likelihood of any specific race being rescheduled.
Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images
During a discussion with Wall Street financial experts regarding Liberty Media’s first-quarter fiscal outcomes, CEO Chang indicated a willingness to allow for the potential rescheduling of one of the Middle Eastern races, while F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is reportedly “expending extra effort” to evaluate every conceivable situation.
“Our methodology will be deliberate, and we intend to continually review this year’s schedule. There is a possibility of rearranging a single race closer to the season’s conclusion,” Chang articulated.
“I believe we are assessing all the numerous options and striving to finalize choices promptly to provide ample preparation time should modifications and revisions become necessary. However, I will defer to Stefano to elaborate on these details, as he and his colleagues are laboring intensely to maintain pace,” he added.
Domenicali further commented: “To prevent any guesswork, the sole statement I can offer is that we possess contingency strategies, which we ideally hope not to implement, as our sincere wish is for global circumstances, not just those affecting motorsports, to return to stability.
“Certainly, we possess strategic outlines. The timeframe for preparation or the deadline varies significantly between the possibility of salvaging events not held in April and what might or might not occur in late November or early December. Naturally, we are coordinating with the teams and event organizers, as such matters trigger substantial ripple effects. We will provide updates to all relevant parties when appropriate.”
Formula 1 Reports 53% Jump in First Quarter Earnings
Liberty Media declared that F1’s earnings for the first quarter of 2026 saw a year-over-year surge of 53%, reaching $617 million, a notable rise from $403 million in the corresponding period of the previous year. Formula 1’s operational profit ascended to $107 million, alongside a core operating profit (OIBDA) of $172 million.
Derek Chang, Liberty Media chief executive
Photo by: Alberto Crippa
Formula 1’s financial figures for the first quarter were skewed due to hosting three Grands Prix this year, Japan among them, an increase from two in 2025. Furthermore, F1 strengthened its financial reserves by securing new sponsorship agreements, notably with Standard Chartered, and is optimistic about augmented income from expanded Paddock Club and other premium hospitality packages. Consequently, the second quarter’s revenue will be affected by the absence of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races, with only five events occurring this quarter versus nine in the previous year.
“Liberty Media has commenced 2026 robustly, showing consistent progress within Formula 1 and executing our long-term vision for MotoGP,” Chang observed. “F1 consistently showcases the power of its worldwide presence, as expanding viewership and heightened fan involvement fuel strong interest across all its business facets.”
