WEC 2026 Season Opener in Qatar Postponed Amid Middle East Conflict

The 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) race in Qatar, originally scheduled to kick off the season later this month, has been postponed until further notice due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Organisers confirmed that the Qatar 1812km event, which was set to take place from March

26–28 at the Lusail International Circuit, will no longer be held as planned. This decision follows a significant rise in regional conflict, including missile and drone activity, which has raised serious safety and logistical concerns for teams, officials, and fans.

In an official statement, the FIA World Endurance Championship management explained that

they have been in ongoing discussions with the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) about the rapidly changing situation. With concerns over security and travel disruption, the organisers decided it was not viable to host the event on the original dates.

"FIA WEC management has been in constant dialogue with the Qatar Motor" Motorcycle

Federation (QMMF) in light of the current and evolving geopolitical situation in the Middle East. With the safety and security of competitors, personnel and fans of the utmost importance, the decision has been taken to delay the event that had been due to take place on 26-28 March.

"Following further discussions with our colleagues at Lusail International Circuit (LIC), where the race is held, a new date for the Qatar 1812km during the second half of the campaign will be finalised and communicated in due course."

While no new date has been finalised yet, representatives said the Qatar 1812km will be

rescheduled later in the 2026 season, likely in the second half of the year. Details about the

revised calendar will be released once confirmed.

As a result of the postponement, the 2026 WEC season will now begin with the 6 Hours of Imola in Italy. This race is scheduled to take place from April 17–19, effectively replacing the Qatar round as the first event on the championship schedule.