Formula 1 Calendar Set for Potential Rotational Shift in European Grands Prix
According to Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, several European Formula 1 grands prix may soon be hosting races on a rotational basis, a move that could have significant implications for the Formula 1 calendar and Formula 1 schedule.
Potential Rotation of European Races
With a record-breaking 24 rounds already packed onto the Formula 1 calendar, the scope for adding new venues is increasingly limited. Domenicali has previously hinted at the possibility of rotating European races, and now he has confirmed that such a move is being seriously considered.
“We have some news to share very, very soon with regard to the possibility in the mid-term to have some rotational European Grand Prix and some other new options coming later,” Domenicali revealed on a Liberty Media investors call.
When asked about the potential for new venues, Domenicali cited Argentina as a location where he would like to see Formula 1 return. The move could see some European races sharing their spot on the calendar with other locations, potentially including the Dutch GP in Zandvoort.
Challenges with Existing Contracts
However, one potential issue with Domenicali’s plan is the contracts already held by many European circuits, which rely on staging a round of the Formula 1 season on an annual basis. Silverstone, the Hungaroring, and the Red Bull Ring have deals that run into the 2030s, while Spa-Francorchamps, Monza, Zandvoort, and Imola are all up for renewal after next year.
Monaco, one of Formula 1‘s most iconic races, is currently only signed on for 2025, but it’s unlikely to share its slot. Meanwhile, a second race in Saudi Arabia, at the Qiddiya Circuit currently under construction, a return to Africa with Rwanda mooted as a potential venue, and the aforementioned potential Argentine GP comeback are all vying for a spot on the Formula 1 calendar.
Optimism for the Future
Domenicali is happy with the current 24-race format, which is allowed under the current Concorde Agreement, in place until the end of 2025. “We believe that the balance we have in terms of numbers is the right one, so 24 is the balanced number that we feel is right,” he added.
The Formula 1 CEO is confident that the current momentum will help to enhance the platform of the sport, both on and off the track. “I think that we are in a good momentum to make sure that the strategy for the future is even stronger, and that’s why we are so confident about the fact that this will help to enhance our platform on the sport, on social and business perspective.”
🔗 Source