The FIA World Endurance Championship has relocated its final two rounds of the season to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and Autodromo Nazionale Monza, replacing previously scheduled events in Qatar and Bahrain due to ongoing developments and safety considerations.
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya Hosts Inaugural WEC Event
The inaugural 6 Hours of Barcelona will take place from October 16–18, marking the first time the FIA WEC has visited the Spanish venue. The track has previously hosted the European Le Mans Series and the Michelin Le Mans Cup. According to FIA WEC CEO Frédéric Lequien, the championship monitored developments in the Middle East over recent months before shifting to the European alternative plan.
Monza Returns as the Temple of Speed
The 6 Hours of Monza is scheduled for November 6–8, bringing the championship back to a venue with more than 60 years of endurance racing heritage. According to historical championship records, the Italian circuit previously welcomed the FIA World Sportscar Championship, yielding victories for motorsport figures such as John Surtees, Mario Andretti, and Jacky Ickx. From 2021 to 2023, the WEC visited the circuit for three consecutive seasons, with past victories secured by Toyota and Alpine. The calendar update remains subject to approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.
Did you know? Autodromo Nazionale Monza has hosted international sports car racing for over six decades, earning its moniker as ‘The Temple of Speed’ through high-speed long-distance events.
Official Responses From Championship Leadership
According to Automobile Club de l’Ouest President Pierre Fillon, organizers worked transparently with stakeholders in the Middle East before confirming the venue changes. Fillon stated that the championship remains fully committed to returning to Qatar and Bahrain in 2027 as scheduled.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized that protecting the wellbeing of the motorsport community remains the highest priority. According to the FIA, Member Clubs and circuit officials in Lusail and Bahrain collaborated closely to explore all options before the calendar update was finalized.
Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit, stated that local organizers fully respect the decision to call off the Qatar 1812km for this season. Similarly, Bahrain International Circuit Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa confirmed that circuit leadership supports the decision in the interest of all involved parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the Qatar and Bahrain WEC rounds canceled?
According to championship organizers, the events were replaced due to ongoing developments and safety considerations in the Middle East.
When will the FIA WEC return to Qatar and Bahrain?
According to the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, the championship is fully committed to returning to both Middle Eastern venues for the 2027 season.
Do these calendar changes affect the 2027 WEC schedule?
No. According to the series, modifications to the 2026 schedule have no impact upon the nine-round 2027 calendar announced on June 12.
What are your thoughts on the addition of Barcelona and Monza to the end of the season? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below or subscribing to our newsletter for the latest motorsport updates.
Keep reading