Looks like a European finale is firmly on the cards for the end of the season. Qatar and Abu Dhabi are not going to happen, the leading contingency plan is to abandon the Gulf region entirely and wrap up the calendar in Europe.
According to the Spanish sports daily Marca, the frontrunners to step in are Portimão and a second race weekend at Barcelona. The main driving force here isn't just the obvious safety concerns, but logistics. Major insurers tied to key partners like DHL, Mercedes, and Audi are reportedly refusing to cover freight for an active conflict zone. Furthermore, it appears neither European circuit would pay a hosting fee.
You can read more about the logistical headaches and the proposed European replacements in Marca's F1 coverage here.
What do you think about ending the season in Iberia is a good idea? Reminds me a bit of 1997 ending in Jerez and we know how that turned out.
According to the Spanish sports daily Marca, the frontrunners to step in are Portimão and a second race weekend at Barcelona. The main driving force here isn't just the obvious safety concerns, but logistics. Major insurers tied to key partners like DHL, Mercedes, and Audi are reportedly refusing to cover freight for an active conflict zone. Furthermore, it appears neither European circuit would pay a hosting fee.
You can read more about the logistical headaches and the proposed European replacements in Marca's F1 coverage here.
What do you think about ending the season in Iberia is a good idea? Reminds me a bit of 1997 ending in Jerez and we know how that turned out.