Formula 1’s rapid global expansion, particularly since Liberty Media took over as owners in 2017, is set to usher in significant changes to the Grand Prix calendar. Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of F1, has confirmed that fans can expect major updates regarding the race schedule in the near future. The sport's growing popularity has seen countries from across the globe eager to join the racing circus, and new additions are on the horizon.
New Locations: Madrid, South Korea, and more
Among the most exciting developments is the planned introduction of Madrid to the F1 calendar in 2026. The Spanish capital will join the ranks of iconic race cities, further bolstering F1's presence in Europe.
Additionally, there is talk of a return to South Korea, where a new circuit could host future races. Other potential additions include proposals from South Africa, Argentina, and Colombia, all seeking to become part of the racing elite.
However, F1 is faced with the challenge of accommodating all these requests. With so many countries keen to host races, there have been discussions about rotating some European Grands Prix on the calendar to manage the overwhelming demand.
Alternating races to meet demand
One suggestion that has gained traction is the idea of alternating the Dutch Grand Prix every two years. This proposal is aimed at reducing hosting costs while maintaining the race's financial sustainability, given the high fees F1 now demands for hosting.
The other race that falls in this category is the Belgian Grand Prix. By rotating these races, F1 can balance demand without overwhelming the calendar or diluting the sport’s appeal.
Speaking during a Liberty Media investor call, Domenicali elaborated on the ongoing changes: "For '26 and beyond, we will have some news to share very, very soon regarding the possibility, in the mid-term, to rotate some European Grand Prix, and some other new options coming later. This is something we will clarify in due course."
Expanding to 26 races? Domenicali weighs in
With the sport's growth, some have suggested that the F1 calendar could expand to a record-breaking 26 races. While the possibility exists within the current Concorde Agreement, the contract binding F1, the FIA, and the ten teams, Domenicali has stated that 24 races are the ideal number for the time being.
“We believe the balance we have in terms of numbers is the right one,” Domenicali said. “Twenty-four is the balance number. I do believe all the proposals on our table are giving us the possibility to make even better choices for our future.”
The F1 boss emphasized that while financial considerations are important, they must be balanced with regional market potential and the overall vision for the sport’s future.
Domenicali remains optimistic about F1’s future, highlighting that the sport is in a position of strength with a growing global presence. "We are in a good momentum to make sure the strategy for the future is even stronger," he added. "That's why we are so confident this will help to enhance our platform of the sport from a social and business perspective."
F1’s continued growth and evolving calendar are a testament to the sport’s global appeal, with major changes on the horizon as it seeks to strike the perfect balance between tradition, economics, and international expansion.