In a significant shake-up for Formula 1 fans, the sport has announced changes to its race calendar that will see the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit drop out of the lineup for two seasons. Following a new deal secured for the Belgian Grand Prix, Spa will host races in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031. However, it will be absent from the 2028 and 2030 seasons as part of F1’s new strategy to rotate circuits to meet the increasing demand from venues seeking to host races.
The Belgian Grand Prix, renowned for its unpredictable weather and the legendary Eau Rouge-Raidillon corner combination, has been a staple of the F1 calendar since the series began in 1950. F1 President Stefano Domenicali welcomed the new contract, emphasizing Spa’s status as one of the world’s finest racing circuits and recognizing the substantial investment made in recent years to enhance the track and fan experience.
Despite the excitement surrounding the contract extension, reactions from fans have been mixed. While many celebrate the continuation of races at Spa, the prospect of its absence in two of the upcoming seasons has raised concerns regarding the future of traditional circuits. The shorter contract for Spa compared to other tracks, like the Australian Grand Prix, which has a deal extending to 2037, has sparked questions about the selection process for F1 venues.
As F1 explores potential replacements for Spa during its absence, several candidates have emerged. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, along with new venues in Thailand, Argentina, and South Africa, are among those in contention for a spot on the calendar. The push for a more diverse geographical representation in the sport means that iconic European circuits may have to share the spotlight with newer, financially lucrative options.
The decision to rotate races reflects the financial realities of modern F1, where track contracts are valued in the hundreds of millions. While preserving historic venues like Spa on a rotational basis may appease some fans, the shift highlights the sport’s growing emphasis on profitability over tradition. As the landscape of Formula 1 continues to evolve, the balance between maintaining its rich heritage and meeting commercial demands remains a contentious topic among fans and stakeholders alike.
