Formula 1 Set to Unveil European Race Rotation Plan

While Europe has traditionally been the heart of Formula 1, the continent currently hosts only nine of the 24 races on the calendar. However, there are hints that this could change, with “many” more grands prix expected to take place across Europe in the near future.

Presently, Formula 1 is on the cusp of a global expansion, with new markets in the Middle East, the Americas, and Asia growing rapidly. But the European base, where F1 has deep roots, may also see a resurgence.

The current speculation centres on the idea that F1 could introduce a rotation system for some European races, a move that would allow more events to take place without exceeding the current cap of 24 races per season.

This potential rotation system is rumored to begin with the introduction of new technical regulations in 2026.

Key circuits in Europe, such as Zandvoort, Spa-Francorchamps, Imola, and Barcelona, are likely candidates to be part of this rotational setup. The idea is that these iconic tracks could share their spot on the calendar, hosting a grand prix every two years.

This could offer financial benefits to the organisers, as it would reduce the hosting fees they need to pay while ensuring that the races remain part of the Formula 1 landscape. Such a system would help balance the commercial growth of the sport with its European heritage.

One of the most notable absences from the current Formula 1 calendar is Germany. Despite its rich motorsport history and significant contributions to the automotive industry, Germany has been without a grand prix in recent years.

At a recent event in Spain, where CEO of the Formula One Group Stefano Domenicali introduced F1’s new partnership with Banco Santander, a journalist asked whether Germany might return to the calendar in the future.

Domenicali emphasised Germany’s importance to Formula 1, acknowledging the country’s long-standing involvement in the sport and its motorsport tradition. He made it clear that the absence of a German Grand Prix is not due to Formula 1’s unwillingness but rather the changing circumstances in Germany itself.

“Germany has always been part of our calendar and full of motorsport and automotive tradition,” Domenicali said. “But unfortunately, we don’t have a grand prix there these days. This is not because we don’t want to, but because the situation in Germany has changed. We are trying to find the right partners to start a constructive dialogue again.”

Germany’s role in Formula 1 could be bolstered by Audi’s entry into the sport in the coming years.

The country already has a strong connection to Formula 1 through Mercedes, one of the leading teams on the grid. However, despite these ties, there has yet to be a concrete solution to bring a German Grand Prix back.

“Audi is coming to Formula 1, and with Mercedes we have a strong partner. Everyone is pushing to find a solution, but we don’t have that solution yet. But our task is to finally find one,” Domenicali explained.

One of the challenges Formula 1 faces is the limitation on the number of races per season. Under the current agreement with the teams, the number of grands prix is capped at 24.

However, introducing a rotational system could offer Formula 1 the flexibility it needs to accommodate more European races without surpassing this limit. Such a system would allow for a greater variety of tracks to appear on the calendar over time, helping to satisfy both commercial demands and the sport’s traditional fan base in Europe.

Domenicali hinted at exciting developments for the future, suggesting that 2026 will be a key year for European races. “In 2026, you will see something interesting.

“We are discussing with other organizers in Europe to do something that will be announced soon. 2026 will be a year in which there will be many grands prix in Europe,” he said.

With many options on the table, Formula 1 is preparing to strike a balance between its global expansion and its European heart, ensuring that the sport’s traditional venues continue to play a significant role in its future.

Main Image: Par Lukas Raich — Travail personnel, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=133976992