Formula 1 has confirmed it will be introducing rotational races in future calendars after signing a multi-year contract extension with the Belgian Grand Prix.
The race at Spa-Francorchamps will host four races over a six-year period from 2026 onwards, with no race being held at the venue in 2028 and 2030.
“I am delighted that the Belgian Grand Prix – a must-attend event for Wallonia – has been confirmed on the F1 calendar for several years,” Jeholet said.
“In addition to this international showcase, the event generates significant economic benefits for Wallonia, as well as for Belgium.
Zandvoort was understood to be one option to host a grand prix on rotation but recently announced it would end its event after the 2026 season.
After extending its contract with the Belgian Grand Prix for several years, Formula 1 has confirmed that it will be adding rotational races to future calendars.
There won’t be any races at Spa-Francorchamps in 2028 or 2030, but there will be four races there over a six-year span starting in 2026. This frees up time slots for other European races to be added to the schedule in place of Spa during those seasons. According to Formula One, the company is currently receiving more requests from prospective hosts and thinks that switching up the European races will help it reach a wider audience.
With the extension for Spa-Francorchamps extending until 2031, the last year it will host an event under its new contract, the agreement does guarantee the future of one of the most recognizable tracks on the calendar.
As we begin our 75th anniversary year, it is appropriate that we announce this significant extension, said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. “The Belgian Grand Prix was one of the races that made up our maiden championship in 1950.”.
“Over its many seasons in Formula 1, Spa-Francorchamps has hosted some incredible moments and is rightfully hailed by drivers and fans alike as one of the best racetracks in the world.”. The facility and general fan experience have been greatly enhanced in recent years, and I would like to thank the promoter and the Government of Wallonia for their commitment to and fervent support of Formula 1 in Belgium. “.”.
The agreement enables Spa to more confidently commit to its own future investments, even though it won’t host a race every year, said Pierre-Yves Jeholet, vice president of the Walloon Government.
“I’m thrilled that the Belgian Grand Prix, which is a Wallonia must-see, has been confirmed on the Formula One calendar for a number of years,” Jeholet stated. “The circuit offers the area first-rate sporting facilities that can accommodate major events, and Spa-Francorchamps—and Wallonia—is brought to the attention of the world through the FIA Formula 1 World Championship.
Along with serving as an international showcase, the event brings Wallonia and Belgium substantial economic benefits. It is extremely beneficial for the circuit teams to be able to plan for the future as a result of this relationship being extended over a number of years. “”.
According to F1 at this point, the rotational races scheduled for 2028 and 2030 have not yet been confirmed. It was previously thought that Zandvoort might host a grand prix on a rotating basis, but it was recently announced that it would stop hosting the event after the 2026 season.
