2026: Europe Braces for Numerous Grand Prix Events

F1 announces imminent details on its rotation system, promising a packed 2026 European circuit.

Stefano Domenicali hinted that Formula 1 could soon boast “many” Grand Prix events in Europe.

Currently, although the old continent is the traditional and historic centerpiece of the sport, there are only 9 races in Europe on the 24-race calendar.

However, there is much current talk of F1’s desire to expand to new hosts, sparking the concept of an annual rotation of some European races beginning with the new regulations era in 2026.

Zandvoort, Spa-Francorchamps, Imola, and Barcelona are the initial candidates for the rotation system, allowing them to pay lower fees to Formula 1 while keeping their Grand Prix alive.

This week, as the F1 CEO unveiled the sport’s new sponsor, Banco Santander in Spain, he was asked if Germany had a chance of returning to the calendar.

“Germany has always been a priority for us; it is full of motorsport and automotive tradition. But unfortunately, we don’t have a Grand Prix there these days.”

“It’s not that we don’t want it, but because the situation in Germany has changed. We are trying to find the right partners to restart a constructive dialogue.”

“Audi is coming to Formula 1, and with Mercedes, we have a solid partner. Everyone is pushing to find a solution, but we don’t have that solution yet. But our task is to finally find one.”

The problem is that in agreement with the teams, the F1 owner, Liberty Media, has limited the calendar to a maximum of 24 races per year.

But a system of annual race rotations gives the sport more opportunities to expand in Europe.

“In 2026, you will see something interesting,” Domenicali indicates. “We are discussing with other organizers in Europe to do something that will be announced soon.”

“2026 will be a year where there will be many Grand Prix events in Europe. For now, we have many options and we still have to see which ones can conclude in agreements.”