FIA President Ben Sulayem has publicly reassured Formula 1 drivers and teams that the governing body will not place them "at risk" over the sport’s Middle East fixtures. Speaking to the media on Monday, Sulayem emphasized that the FIA’s priority remains the safety of all participants, even as the championship heads to Jeddah and Abu Dhabi for the final two rounds of the 2026 season.
In a brief statement quoted by Bozem Daily Chronicle and The Messenger, Sulayem said that the FIA is closely monitoring the geopolitical climate and any potential security concerns surrounding the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. He added that the organisation works in close partnership with local authorities, event promoters and the teams to ensure that all safety protocols meet the highest international standards.
The comments come at a time when the sport’s calendar has faced scrutiny over the inclusion of races in regions with heightened political tensions. Earlier this year, several teams raised questions about travel logistics and the welfare of personnel travelling to the Gulf. Sulayem’s reassurance seeks to quell any lingering doubts and to underline that the FIA will not compromise on the stringent safety measures that have become a hallmark of modern Formula 1.
For Indian fans, the two Middle East races will be broadcast live on FanCode with Indian Standard Time (IST) coverage. The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah is scheduled for 23 November, kicking off at 20:00 IST, while the season‑closing Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will take place on 6 December with a start time of 19:30 IST. Both events will feature pre‑race analysis, driver interviews and post‑race highlights on the platform, ensuring that Indian viewers can follow the championship’s climax without missing a beat.
While the FIA’s assurance does not guarantee a risk‑free environment—unforeseen developments can always arise—it does signal that the sport’s governing body is taking a proactive stance. Teams will continue to conduct their own risk assessments, but they can now do so with the confidence that the FIA’s top brass is actively engaged with host‑nation officials.
Source: Bozem Daily Chronicle
