The highly anticipated Qatar 1812km, set to kick off the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship on March 26-28, has been officially postponed until later in the year. This decision comes as a result of ongoing discussions between the FIA WEC management, the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), and the Lusail International Circuit (LIC), where the race is held. The safety and security of competitors, personnel, and fans are of paramount importance, and the organizers have taken this step to ensure the well-being of all involved.
The first round of the season will now commence with the 6 Hours of Imola in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy on April 17-19. This change in schedule has been made to accommodate the postponement of the Qatar event. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, emphasized the organization's commitment to the safety and well-being of its community, expressing gratitude for the collaborative approach taken by all parties involved.
The Qatar 1812km holds a special place in the hearts of many fans, drivers, and teams, and the organizers are working closely to reschedule the race for a later date in the 2026 season. The FIA continues to monitor the situation in the region, keeping its thoughts with those affected by the recent events. Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the QMMF and LIC, expressed respect and support for the FIA WEC's decision, thanking fans, teams, and partners for their understanding.
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), highlighted the secondary nature of sporting interests in times of conflict, and the need for a quick decision to postpone the event. Frédéric Lequien, CEO of the FIA World Endurance Championship, acknowledged the close collaboration between all parties and confirmed that the revised date will be announced in the second half of the 2026 season. This decision has sparked discussions about the impact of geopolitical situations on sporting events, and the importance of prioritizing safety and security.
