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World Endurance Championship Cancels Qatar Season Opener Amid Middle East Conflict

Posted : 04 March 2026

The World Endurance Championship (WEC) announced the cancellation of its season-opening Qatar 1812km race due to recent military strikes in the Middle East and the closure of airports across the region, including Doha.

Originally scheduled for March 26-28 at the Lusail International Circuit, the race was set to kick off the 2026 endurance season, which features the 24 Hours of Le Mans as its highlight in June. The WEC confirmed that the season will now begin with the Six Hours of Imola in Italy from April 17-19.

“With the safety and security of competitors, personnel, and fans of the utmost importance, the decision has been taken to delay the event,” the WEC said.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed appreciation to local organizers and the WEC for their collaborative approach and confirmed that efforts would be made to reschedule the Qatar race later in the 2026 season.

The cancellation marks the first major motorsport disruption in the Gulf since the outbreak of conflict over the past weekend.

The regional situation has also put Formula One in the spotlight, with Bahrain and Saudi Arabia scheduled to host races in April. Iranian missile strikes targeted Doha, Dubai, Manama, and Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about travel and safety.

 While the Bahrain Grand Prix on April 12 and the Jeddah race the following weekend remain on the calendar, rescheduling may prove challenging due to heat, logistics, and a congested racing schedule.

Alternatives in Europe, such as Imola, Le Castellet, or Portimao, are being considered. Motorsport authorities, teams, and governments are closely monitoring developments, emphasizing the safety of drivers, staff, and fans as the top priority.

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