F1's Future Calendar Takes Shape: Madrid Confirmed, Expansion on the Horizon

Formula 1 is strategically charting its course for future seasons, emphasizing commercial stability and forward planning by announcing elements of the 2026 calendar well ahead of schedule. This proactive approach, increasingly becoming a norm, saw Madrid officially confirmed as a new host city from 2026. The proposed street circuit in the Spanish capital is set to replace Imola, though its inclusion is contingent on the venue's completion. Looking beyond 2026, further changes are anticipated. Zandvoort is expected to host its final Dutch Grand Prix after the conclusion of the 2025 season, opening up a slot on the schedule. Meanwhile, F1 is actively engaging with several potential new destinations. Thailand is making significant strides with plans for a street race in Bangkok, leveraging strong government support and ties to the sport through Red Bull's owners and driver Alex Albon. Rwanda in Africa is also pursuing a bid for a permanent circuit near Kigali, a project that has garnered attention from the FIA and is being designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz. A second race in Saudi Arabia is another distinct possibility. Construction is underway for the Qiddiya Speed Park circuit, also designed by Wurz. While it was initially considered a potential replacement for the current Jeddah street track, Saudi promoters have publicly stated their ambition to host two Formula 1 events in the future, underlining the region's significant investment and interest in the sport. Argentina also has a potential bid, though it relies on private funding and requires substantial upgrades to its existing facility. Accommodating these new venues presents a challenge, particularly as there is a broad consensus within the F1 paddock that the current 24-race calendar is nearing its capacity. The inclusion of multiple triple-headers has also drawn criticism from personnel regarding workload and logistics. To manage potential expansion without significantly increasing the total number of races, F1 is exploring the use of rotational deals for existing circuits. The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps currently operates under such an arrangement, and Barcelona, despite losing the 'Spanish Grand Prix' designation to Madrid from 2026, could potentially adopt a similar model to retain its place on the calendar beyond its current contract. Other circuits face varying contract situations. Azerbaijan's current deal concludes after 2026. The Circuit of The Americas in the US appears secure, benefiting from strong attendance and investment. In contrast, the initial three-year deal for the Las Vegas Grand Prix is nearing its end, with reports suggesting challenges in negotiating an extension amid local issues and commercial performance. Overall, the future Formula 1 calendar is poised for continued evolution, balancing the integration of new, ambitious venues with the constraints of logistics and the needs of the sport's existing cornerstone events through flexible scheduling models like rotation.