Emirati motorsport leader, FIA president since 2021
Domenicali has said a mid-September decision will determine whether Qatar and Abu Dhabi host the season’s finale, with Europe as a fallback if the Middle East situation cannot be resolved. Malaysia’s race replaces Bahrain, and 24 Grands Prix remain the target for 2027, with Imola and Las Vegas in play for potential end-of-year events.
Max Verstappen has extended his Red Bull contract to 2030 as Formula 1 implements new engine regulations. The move follows months of speculation about his future and reflects a commitment to the team despite dissatisfaction with the sport’s energy-management rules.
Tadej Pogacar has suffered a concussion and a displaced left clavicle fracture after a crash in the Vuelta a Espana. He will require surgery on the clavicle, but concussion precautions delay the procedure. He has left the race after a heavy fall, ending his bid for a third Grand Tour title.
The 2027 Formula 1 schedule has expanded sprint races from six to ten, with Monaco hosting a short-form event for the first time. Other sprints are planned in Bahrain, Australia, Japan, Abu Dhabi, Canada, Britain, Italy, Brazil and Qatar as organisers seek greater fan engagement amid regional tensions and security concerns.
The FIA has cancelled the Rally Saudi Arabia leg of the 2026 FIA World Rally Championship due to ongoing regional unrest. The finale will shift to Rally Italia Sardegna (Oct 1-4) as the season's final round, with Elfyn Evans leading the standings. Saudi Arabia will still host the Middle East Rally Championship this year.
Formula 1 has signed a 10-year agreement with Rwanda to host an African Grand Prix on a new, purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, about 40km south of Kigali, with the first race expected in the early 2030s. The project has been presented as a long-term development linking sport, tourism and technical training, and faces criticism over sportswashing and human rights.