Jul.27 (GMM) Formula 1 has confirmed that this year’s postponed Bahrain GP will instead be staged at Malaysia’s Sepang circuit, while Stefano Domenicali admits Imola remains on standby if the Middle East conflict forces further calendar changes.
The sport has relocated the postponed Bahrain event following the renewed war involving Iran, with uncertainty also hanging over the season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Speaking to Sky Italia after the Hungarian GP, Domenicali stressed that Formula 1 still hopes to complete the original calendar.
“We have to be prepared,” he said. “Of course we’re hoping right until the end.”
“By nature we’re optimistic, so until the very last minute the calendar remains Qatar and Abu Dhabi. By the way, those events are practically sold out already as well.”
“But if we have to make different decisions, we’re ready. Who knows, maybe we’ll be speaking Italian. We’ll see.”
Domenicali later told Sky Deutschland that Formula 1 cannot delay forever.
“We want to postpone the decision as long as possible,” said the Italian. “But I would say we have to make a decision before the end of September.”
Meanwhile, Domenicali indicated the Hungaroring has secured its long-term future after completing its major redevelopment.
“The modernisation work is complete, and I think we’re absolutely ready to discuss the even longer term,” he said.
“Negotiations for an early contract extension are already underway. The Hungaroring is definitely one of the tracks where we’re in very concrete talks about hosting a weekend with a Saturday sprint.”
“We want to continue developing in this direction, and Hungary is an obvious candidate.”
Away from the calendar, Aston Martin’s new Honda power unit is due to be track-debuted at the Hungaroring on Wednesday before its planned race debut at Zandvoort.
“Frankly, yes,” Honda’s Shintaro Orihara said when asked if the company feels pressure following Aston Martin’s dramatic chassis breakthrough.
“Thanks to the updated chassis, we’re back in contention with our rivals. Any improvements are important to close the gap.”
“The chassis is working well, and now it’s important to introduce the new power unit in Zandvoort. Our power unit should help us gain laptime.”
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES