# Kimi Antonelli's title hopes boosted by F1 calendar change

> F1 replaces Qatar and Abu Dhabi with Imola finale after Middle East security threats.
- Title: Kimi Antonelli's title hopes boosted by F1 calendar change
- Summary: F1 replaces Qatar and Abu Dhabi with Imola finale after Middle East security threats. Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli will mathematically win 2026 F1 title if…
- Keywords: formula 1, kimi antonelli, mercedes, imola, abu dhabi, qatar, fia, security threats, championship, points, 2026, ferrari
- Source: Motorsport — https://motorsport.com/f1/news/formula-1-prepares-to-trigger-imola-season-finale-amid-escalating-regional-security-threats/10864677
- Author: Rahaan Mazumder
- Published: 2026-10-12T12:14:04+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: formula 1, kimi antonelli, mercedes, imola, abu dhabi, qatar, fia, security threats, championship, points, 2026, ferrari
## Security threats force F1 calendar change
F1 replaces Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix with Imola finale amid Middle East security escalations.

> consecutive bombings at riyadh airport today
## Imola as emergency finale
Imola hosts Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix on 6 December after Abu Dhabi cancellation.

> temporary grandstands construction underway
## Championship math shifts
Mercedes leads with 340 points, 102 ahead of Russell; points pool drops to 125.

> maximum of 150 points on table originally
## Antonelli's title math
Antonelli mathematically wins title with 5 races remaining if no DNFs occur.

> victory at circuit of the americas secures championship
## Mercedes secure title
Mercedes garage heads to texas knowing championship trophy is already in their hands.

> championship trophy essentially already in their hands
## Key takeaway

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli will mathematically win 2026 F1 title if calendar change holds.