Formulation 1 has confirmed it is going to be introducing rotational races in future calendars after signing a multi-year contract extension with the Belgian Grand Prix.
The race at Spa-Francorchamps will host 4 races over a six-year interval from 2026 onwards, with no race being held on the venue in 2028 and 2030. That opens up slots for different European races to be added to the calendar in Spa’s place throughout these seasons, with F1 saying it has elevated demand from potential hosts at current and believing rotating European races will permit it to hit extra markets.
The deal does safe the way forward for one of the crucial iconic tracks on the calendar, with the extension for Spa-Francorchamps working as much as 2031 as the ultimate yr it can host an occasion on its new contract.
“The Belgian Grand Prix was one of many races that made up our maiden championship in 1950, in order we kick off our seventy fifth anniversary yr it’s becoming that we are able to share the information of this vital extension,” F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali mentioned.
“Spa-Francorchamps is rightly lauded by drivers and followers alike as one of many best racetracks on the planet and it has performed host to some unbelievable moments over its many seasons in Formulation 1. In recent times it has undergone important work to enhance the ability and total fan expertise, and I want to pay tribute to the promoter and the Authorities of Wallonia for his or her dedication and passionate assist for Formulation 1 in Belgium.”
Though it received’t host a race yearly, the deal permits Spa to decide to its personal future investments with extra certainty, in line with Pierre-Yves Jeholet, who’s vp of the Walloon Authorities.
“I’m delighted that the Belgian Grand Prix – a must-attend occasion for Wallonia – has been confirmed on the F1 calendar for a number of years,” Jeholet mentioned. “The circuit gives the area with high-quality sports activities infrastructure able to internet hosting distinctive occasions, and due to the FIA Formulation 1 World Championship, Spa-Francorchamps, and thru it, Wallonia, is positioned on the centre of world consideration.
“Along with this worldwide showcase, the occasion generates important financial advantages for Wallonia, in addition to for Belgium. The extension of this relationship over a number of years will even permit the circuit groups to plan for the long run, which is vastly constructive.”
At this stage, F1 says the rotational races to be held in 2028 and 2030 are but to be confirmed. Zandvoort was understood to be one choice to host a grand prix on rotation however lately introduced it could finish its occasion after the 2026 season.
