'Very difficult' to be convinced Middle East races go ahead - Sainz

Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz expressed doubt at the 2026 US Grand Prix press conference that Formula 1's season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will take place as scheduled, citing ongoing conflict in the Middle East involving Israel, the US, and Iran. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem had earlier insisted the races would proceed as planned. Sainz, who serves as a Grand Prix Drivers' Association director, spoke in a personal capacity alongside fellow drivers Oscar Piastri and Isack Hadjar, none of whom initially moved to answer when asked about their concerns.