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Formula 1 Announces Long-Term Contracts for….read more
Formula 1 has revealed a significant shake-up to its calendar, announcing a new long-term contract with the Chinese Grand Prix and confirming the end of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort after 2026.
In a major move for the sport, Formula 1 confirmed that the Chinese Grand Prix, which made its return in 2023 after a five-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has signed a new five-year deal that will keep the race on the calendar until 2030. This new agreement secures the future of the race at the Shanghai International Circuit, a venue that first hosted the event in 2004. The deal further cements China’s growing role in F1’s global expansion and strengthens the partnership between the sport and the Chinese Grand Prix promoter.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed his excitement about the extension of the deal, calling it “fantastic” to see the sport return to China after several years away. He highlighted the strong support F1 enjoys in the country and emphasized the impressive atmosphere and enthusiasm surrounding the event. “Our return to China this season for the first time since 2019 was a fantastic moment for the sport, and it is incredible to see the levels of support that we enjoy in the country continuing to grow year-on-year,” Domenicali said. He also praised the Shanghai circuit, which he described as “an incredible city” and a “wonderful test” for drivers. The Shanghai International Circuit has long been considered one of the most challenging and technically demanding venues on the calendar, known for its mix of high-speed straights and tight corners, providing a true test of driver skill.
Max Verstappen, the current world champion, made headlines this season when he secured victory at the Chinese Grand Prix, further cementing his place as one of the sport’s dominant figures. His triumph at Shanghai followed his four consecutive world titles, and his performance in 2023 showed that the race could continue to be a significant fixture on the F1 calendar.
However, not all the news coming from F1 was positive for long-standing venues. In a surprising turn, it was confirmed that the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort would leave the calendar after the 2026 season. This decision marks the end of a highly successful stint for the circuit, which returned to the calendar in 2021 after a 36-year absence. Since its return, the Dutch Grand Prix has been a huge success, thanks in part to the passionate support of Max Verstappen’s “Orange Army” – the fans who turn out in massive numbers to cheer for their home hero. Zandvoort, nestled along the North Sea coast, is a favorite among drivers due to its challenging corners and proximity to Verstappen’s homeland.
Despite its popularity, Formula 1 and the Zandvoort circuit reached the decision to part ways after the 2026 season. The track will host two more races, in 2025 and 2026, before making its exit from the calendar. This move has come as a surprise to many, as Zandvoort’s return was widely praised by fans and drivers alike, with the event generating significant attention each year due to Verstappen’s success and the enthusiastic atmosphere created by his supporters.
The departure of Zandvoort is a reminder of how the F1 calendar is constantly evolving, with races sometimes leaving and new ones entering based on various factors, including market demand, financial agreements, and logistical considerations. It’s also a reflection of F1’s strategy to balance the demands of traditional venues with its desire to explore new markets and expand its global fanbase.
While the departure of Zandvoort might disappoint many, the new agreement with China signals Formula 1’s continuing growth in Asia. China, with its massive population and growing interest in motorsport, represents a key market for F1’s future. The addition of the Chinese Grand Prix to the calendar for the next five years will likely help F1 strengthen its foothold in the region and attract more fans from the world’s most populous country.
Looking ahead, Formula 1 fans will have much to look forward to in the coming years, with a packed schedule of races across the globe. As the sport continues to expand into new territories and maintain its appeal in established markets, the future of F1 promises to be an exciting one.
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