Hockenheim: a unique history
In the “club” of historic Formula 1 circuits, those that have a mix of the number of appearances in world calendars and general public appreciation, the figure of Hockenheim cannot be missing. Host of 37 editions of the German Grand Prix since 1970, the track was particularly appreciated in its original version, characterized by two long and fast straights that cut through the Black Forest before entering the final section of the Stadium, with a series of twisting curves that led back to the finish line.
However, just over twenty years ago, the layout was completely overhauled with the elimination of the straights and a reduction to a version of the track mainly concentrated in the final sector of the old circuit.
Light at the end of the tunnel?
A decision that sparked strong controversy and contributed to the loss of Hockenheimring’s charm. To make matters worse, the retirement of Michael Schumacher, the local idol, and financial difficulties have made organizing the German Grand Prix increasingly complicated, to the point that it has not been present in Formula 1 since 2019. However, in an interview with the German publication Watson, Hockenheim’s Manager, Jorn Teske, believes that the time for a possible return of the Grand Prix to this historic circuit is not far off, especially in light of Audi’s debut in the top series in 2026:
“Of course, at Hockenheimring, we have a huge interest in Formula 1 – he explained – it is still the pinnacle of motorsport and fits very well with our history and also belongs to this place. Even the fans want a return to the Formula 1 calendar.” – he pointed out.
German pressure on Formula 1
The main problem for organizing the event, primarily related to the very high costs, remains undeniable, as Jorn Teske has not hidden this aspect: “I cannot say if there will seriously be a return, nor in which championship – he added – in recent years, negotiations have repeatedly failed due to the financial situation. The setup involved such a great risk that we could not take responsibility for it. We cannot jeopardize years of good work with a Formula 1 race that is presumed to be a loss every year. We need partners to be able to organize a race weekend in an economically sustainable way. We could not refinance this entrance fee through ticket sales. It would be a negative business.”
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“In any case – he added – the pressure for a German Grand Prix is currently high, so Formula 1 has contacted us and wants to talk. There are signals indicating that something like this is conceivable in the future, but they are just signals for now. If this proves to be true, the contacts will become more intense again. Formula 1 must first decide for itself if it wants an annual race in Germany. Then a financial solution must be found. Once all of this is ready, we will be very open to a change of direction. My colleagues at the Nurburgring think the same way. If Formula 1 wants a race in Germany only every two years, then I would fight for our track to be chosen.” – Jorn Teske explained.
Stefano Domenicali’s availability
Signals have also come from the President and CEO of Formula 1, Stefano Domenicali, who expressed his willingness to reopen negotiations to bring F1 back to Germany: “If there is someone pushing for a German Grand Prix, that would be me – he had already stated to Der Spiegel – but I don’t see any representative in Germany sitting down with us and making a constructive proposal. We know that the value of a race in Europe is different from that of other parts of the world. If you want a Picasso, you have to spend a lot of money to have it. My door is wide open for any conversation.” – the former Ferrari boss concluded.
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