Belgian Grand Prix to remain on F1 calendar on rotational basis
Formula 1 has confirmed that the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps will continue to be part of the racing calendar for four out of the next six years, following a contract extension announced on Wednesday by the sport, which is owned by Liberty Media.
The races are scheduled for the 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031 seasons, with this year's event already set for July 27.
The venues for the 2028 and 2030 races have yet to be determined, marking 2028 as the first year without a race at Spa since 2006.
Both Imola in Italy and the current circuit in Spain near Barcelona face uncertain futures, as Madrid is slated to host a race from 2026 to 2035.
Imola's contract is set to expire in 2026, while Italy's primary race at Monza is confirmed through at least 2031.
The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort has opted to leave the calendar after 2026, while France, which last hosted a grand prix in 2022, and Germany, which has been absent since 2020, may potentially return.
Formula 1 is eager to make a return to Africa for the first time since 1993, with interest in both Rwanda and South Africa, alongside discussions of further expansion in Asia.
Belgium has been a part of the Formula 1 world championship since its inaugural season in 1950, and the Spa circuit is recognized as one of the sport's most historic venues, alongside Monaco, Monza, and Silverstone. The contract for Spa was originally set to expire after this year's race.
Having first been utilized in 1921, the circuit has hosted 57 grand prix events and is the longest on the calendar, renowned for its dramatic descent into Eau Rouge/Raidillon and the extended Kemmel straight.
"Spa-Francorchamps is justly celebrated by both drivers and fans as one of the premier racetracks globally, having witnessed numerous remarkable moments throughout its extensive history in Formula 1," stated F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali.
"In recent years, substantial improvements have been made to enhance the facility and the overall experience for fans."
New grandstands have been constructed in recent years at a circuit that attracted an attendance of 380,000 over the three-day weekend last season.
SportsLigue