Formula 1's closing two races of the season hang in the balance, with Donald Trump's decisions potentially shaping how the sport's 2026 campaign concludes.

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli is poised to secure his maiden championship, yet uncertainty persists over whether he'll compete in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Should these events be canceled, the sport faces an estimated loss of approximately $180 million in forfeited revenue.

Events are slated for Qatar and Abu Dhabi on November 29 and December 6, respectively, but turmoil has gripped the Middle East for months, with Iran frequently accused of launching missile strikes against Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Israel and the United Arab Emirates. It comes as Donald Trump beams as he calls on PGA Tour star at latest rally.

Golf's Asian tour has already postponed the Saudi International without a fixed date, and if F1 determines that team or spectator security is jeopardized, they're prepared to take similar action, notwithstanding the substantial financial consequences.

The United States is withdrawing diplomatic personnel from the region given the prospect that President Trump participates in operations against the Houthis and initiates additional military action against Iran.

That move could escalate tensions, particularly as Trump had previously reduced operations in the lead-up to the November 3 midterm elections.

With the House of Representatives and one-third of the Senate facing reelection, this represents a critical juncture for Trump that may have shaped his strategy.

The area remains unstable, with Imola being discussed as a potential backup venue to conclude the season. Red Bull driver Max Verstappen has voiced apprehension about traveling to a region near active conflict.

"Normally, I am happy to go to Qatar and Abu Dhabi, but you know, when there is a war nearby, and if some of the countries are in conflict with each other, then I think we shouldn't go," he told ViaPlay. "Then, it doesn't matter if you have a contract or not, I think. But it's not up to me."

In early October, F1 boss Stefano Domenicali indicated his intention to maintain the existing calendar. "Based on the information we have, everything is confirmed to remain in Qatar and Abu Dhabi," he said.

"We had a meeting with the Abu Dhabi promoters, and we've already sold 99% of the tickets. There's a great deal of enthusiasm.

"This confirms that we must continue in this way, with the assurance that everything is in order. We are keeping the teams and drivers fully informed of the situation, without any filters. We have an excellent relationship. And I have the responsibility, along with the FIA, to make the right decision. That's what we've decided to do."

This weekend, teams are gathered in Austin, Texas, as the racing circuit moves through the Americas, with stops in Mexico and Brazil before returning stateside for next month's Las Vegas Grand Prix - scheduled just one week before the drivers are set to compete in Qatar.