Qatar 1812km race postponed amid Middle East tensions.
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) World Endurance Championship (WEC) has announced that the Qatar 1812km, originally set to host the opening round of the championship on 26–28 March, has been officially postponed to later in the year.
FIA WEC officials have been closely coordinating with the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Prioritizing the safety and security of drivers, teams, staff, and fans, the decision was made to delay the event.
Following further discussions with representatives at Lusail International Circuit (LIC), the venue for the race, a revised date—likely in the second half of the season—will be confirmed and announced in due course.
As a result, the championship’s opening round will now be the Six Hours of Imola, held in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region from 17–19 April.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem commented on the decision to postpone the Qatar 1812km in an official statement.
“The safety and wellbeing of our community will always be the FIA’s top priority. I thank our Member Club, the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation, Lusail International Circuit, the ACO, and our championship colleagues for their measured and collaborative approach in reaching this decision,” he said.
“As the opening event of the FIA World Endurance Championship, the Qatar 1812km holds a special place for many fans, drivers, and teams. We will work closely with all stakeholders to reschedule the race for later in the 2026 season.
“The FIA continues to monitor developments across the region, and our thoughts are with everyone affected by these recent events. We hope for calm, safety, and a return to stability.”
