The historic Belgian Grand Prix held at the renowned Spa-Francorchamps circuit, has secured a significant new contract with Formula 1. The deal ensures that Belgium will remain a fixture on the F1 calendar for four out of the six years spanning from 2026 to 2031. This marks the first time F1 has introduced such a rotation-based contract, aimed at balancing new event additions while maintaining a manageable calendar.
Rotation of European Grand Prix venues
Under the terms of the agreement, the Belgian Grand Prix will be held in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031. However, Spa-Francorchamps will not host a race in 2028 and 2030. These years will see Belgium’s race replaced by another venue, though the specific locations that will rotate with Spa have yet to be revealed.
Contract uncertainty for other European Races
As the F1 calendar evolves, some iconic European races face uncertain futures. Both the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain and the Imola circuit in Italy are currently out of contract after this season. Barcelona’s Spanish Grand Prix will move to a new circuit in Madrid next year, signalling the end of its long association with the current venue.
The Dutch Grand Prix’s deal expires after 2026, but organisers may seek to bring it back in future years. Additionally, F1 is considering the return of the French and German Grand Prix. While France, the birthplace of motorsport, last hosted a race in 2022, Germany has been absent from the calendar since 2019.
Expanding global presence
One of the key drivers behind the rotation of European races is to allow F1 to diversify its global presence. Currently, one-third of the F1 calendar consists of European races. To expand beyond this, F1 is exploring options for races in regions such as Africa and Asia.
A race in Rwanda is in the works, potentially debuting after 2028, with a new circuit being developed outside Kigali. Additionally, Thailand is interested in hosting a Grand Prix, though this could be as late as 2030. The possibility of returning to South Korea is becoming less likely, despite past exploration of venues in Seoul and Busan.
Tributes and future prospects
F1 president Stefano Domenicali expressed his enthusiasm for the extension of the Belgian Grand Prix, stating, "The Belgian Grand Prix was one of the races that made up our maiden championship in 1950, so as we kick off our 75th anniversary year it is fitting that we can share the news of this important extension."
He also praised the efforts to improve Spa-Francorchamps, noting significant upgrades to the facility and fan experience. "Spa-Francorchamps is rightly lauded by drivers and fans alike as one of the finest race tracks in the world," he added.
As Formula 1 enters its 75th anniversary year, the sport continues to push boundaries, with the longest-ever F1 season in 2024, featuring 24 races. However, with a cap of 25 races per year, it is unlikely that the number will increase in the upcoming regulatory period starting in 2026.