Formula 1 has announced an extension of its contract for the Belgian Grand Prix, although this iconic race is set to be absent from the schedule during specific years, namely 2028 and 2030.
The newly extended contract, which begins in 2024, will see races held in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031, signaling a possible shift towards a rotational system among certain European circuits in the coming years.
In recent times, F1 has been focused on expanding its calendar, particularly with the addition of more races in the United States and Asia. This expansion has intensified competition among traditional European venues that are eager to maintain their spots on the calendar.
The Spa-Francorchamps circuit, beloved by many drivers for its challenging, high-speed layout winding through picturesque forests, has been part of the F1 schedule since the very first championship in 1950 and has been featured every year since 2007.
Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of F1, expressed the significance of the extension, noting that the Belgian Grand Prix was part of the inaugural championship in 1950. “As we embark on our 75th anniversary year, it is fitting to share this important news,” he stated.
Domenicali also praised Spa-Francorchamps, highlighting that it is celebrated by both drivers and fans as one of the premier racetracks globally, having hosted numerous memorable moments throughout its long association with Formula 1.
Besides Spa, other historic circuits in Europe may also see changes in their frequency on the F1 calendar. While Italy currently hosts two races annually at Monza and Imola, the future of the Imola race remains uncertain. Similarly, the contract for the Circuit de Catalunya in Spain is set to end next year, coinciding with a new street race slated for Madrid.
F1 has not yet revealed which venues may step in during the years when the Belgian Grand Prix is not taking place. The rotation of races could offer a chance to re-engage with various markets without the commitment of an annual event.
The German F1 races have not occurred since 2020, although F1 has previously alternated between two circuits there. The last event in Turkey was held in 2021, and the French GP last took place in 2022.
With the absence of the Belgian Grand Prix in 2028, F1 champion Max Verstappen, who is of Belgian origin but competes under the Dutch flag, will lack a home race. Notably, the Dutch GP will also be removed from the schedule post-2026 as the promoter opted not to renew their agreement last month.
Recent Belgian Grand Prix events have drawn significant numbers of Verstappen supporters, who often wear orange to support the Netherlands. The F1 statement on Wednesday emphasized Spa’s “significant investment” to enhance spectator capacity by adding 10,000 seats with two new grandstands.
This year’s Belgian Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from July 25 to July 27, which will feature a sprint race during the weekend.
