Middle East Tensions Force WEC Calendar Reshuffle as Qatar Round Pushed Back

The FIA World Endurance Championship faces a calendar shake-up this season as organizers have made the difficult decision to reschedule the Qatar 1812km race. Originally set to kick off the 2026 campaign during the final weekend of March (26–28 March), the Middle Eastern round will now take place at an alternative date later in the year.

The postponement reflects growing concerns about the evolving geopolitical situation unfolding across the Middle East. Championship organizers have determined that pushing the Qatar event to a later slot in the 2026 calendar represents the most prudent course of action given current circumstances.

This marks a notable deviation from the initially published schedule, with teams and competitors now adjusting their preparations accordingly. The full implications of this rescheduling on the championship's overall structure will become clearer as officials finalize the revised calendar and confirm the new timing for the Qatar round.