Stefano Domenicali reflects on Formula 1 calendar and possible European race rotation. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali discussed the 2026 calendar.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali discussed the 2026 calendar, emphasizing that plans for the rotation of Grand Prix races will be announced soon. The candidates for rotation are the Belgian and Dutch GPs, which are expected to alternate each year, allowing space for other events.

In recent months, Formula 1 has decided to renew several contracts with Grand Prix promoters, especially those outside Europe, many of which will extend until 2030 and beyond.

However, in Europe, the current agreements for Zandvoort, Spa, Imola, Monza, and Monaco will expire in 2025, at the end of the next season. Stefano Domenicali and his team are already working on discussing respective renewals. Regarding the two Italian races, negotiations have already begun, with hopes of reaching a conclusion by the end of this year. However, the renewal is also contingent on the renovation work at the two venues, with Monza undergoing some aspects’ remodeling last January.

Madrid has already been announced as the new venue for the Spanish GP from 2026. Still, Barcelona is not entirely out of the picture, as it has a contract to host the race even in that season. Rotation has been discussed for a while, with the possibility that events in the Netherlands and Belgium may be paired and held in alternate years—a plan that Domenicali has been studying for some time.

This would reduce the calendar to 23 events but would also leave room for other races, including Barcelona. After concluding the contract with the Spanish track, Formula 1 could potentially expand further overseas or to other Asian events, as the category’s leaders have not hidden having numerous proposals on the table, including a possible return to South Korea.

“In that year [2026], there will be many Grand Prix races, especially in Europe, and we have several options to consider,” said Stefano Domenicali when asked about managing the 2026 Formula 1 calendar, coinciding with the start of the new regulatory cycle. I believe Madrid demonstrates something very important for us: seeing that F1’s attention is there, even on the old continent, where everyone thought, ‘Oh, you know, we have to leave Europe because there is no more interest.’ But we have proven otherwise.” – the former Ferrari boss pointed out.

The Italian manager then hinted at the rotation program, with an announcement that could be made shortly: “I think in 2026, you will see something interesting. We are discussing with other promoters in Europe to do something that will be announced soon.” – he confirmed.

“But Madrid will be a great boost. Because the event will be organized in a location where we will be around the convention area to give fans the chance to experience the event incredibly. But the focus in Spain is Barcelona. There is a great commitment to hosting a great Grand Prix there in the next two years.”

Speaking about the recent series of long-term contract extensions, the Formula 1 CEO emphasized that it is not just about guaranteed income streams but also the necessary stability to build events over time. This stands in contrast to what Formula E is experiencing, often dealing with promoters abandoning ePrix after a few years, sometimes after just one season, making it challenging to establish a stable calendar over time.

“I think, as always, when we make a decision about renewal, there are many elements to consider. First and foremost, of course, the financial aspect is essential, undoubtedly. And the fact that we can stabilize with some promoters, whom we believe represent incredible opportunities in terms of stability in these markets, is a significant factor to consider.” – he continued.

“The fact that we have been able to ratify incredible agreements with some promoters in the last two years means that, on the one hand, it is, of course, a very interesting financial package. But on the other hand, an incredible opportunity to develop our business in other areas that add to the promotional fee. And that is our approach,” Domenicali added. For example, numerous events related to Formula 1 are planned in Madrid’s city center, providing sponsors with greater visibility.

Stefano Domenicali also reiterated that there is currently no desire to go beyond 24 races.

“It is clear that if you see the development of the regionalization of the calendar, we have gone from being European-centric to a much more global development, which must be maintained in the future. I just want to confirm that we believe 24 races are the right number. I think we will play it right, as I mentioned earlier, in that we have some opportunities that we want to bring to the market in the next two years, starting in 2026.” – the former Ferrari team principal concluded.