New circuits, calendar changes and innovative proposals
In recent years, Formula 1 has experienced unprecedented growth worldwide. Thousands of new fans have joined the sport, driven largely by its impact on entertainment with series like Netflix's Drive to Survive, and its foray into fashion, film, and the endorsement of the world's most influential brands. This expansion has led the top flight of motorsports to break boundaries that seemed unattainable a decade ago.
However, with this growth also comes change. Both Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, and Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, have announced several transformations that will shape the future of the championship.
Photo: FIA
An increasingly tight calendar
Since 2023, F1 has 24 races on its calendar, a record. This increase has sparked interest from numerous countries in hosting a Grand Prix. Names such as Argentina, Malaysia, Portugal, and even African nations have expressed their desire to enter the series, submitting proposals to secure a spot.
Even so, Domenicali made it clear at the end of last season that no more than 24 races will be added. He explained that a longer calendar would be unfeasible due to budget, organizational, and, above all, rest periods for drivers and teams.
Instead of adding dates, the alternative that has gained traction is circuit rotation. This would involve certain Grand Prix events being held one year and then giving way to other interested venues the next. In fact, Domenicali stated in April of this year, prior to the Imola GP, that holding two races in the same country during the same season would be practically impossible, leaving the door open to more international rotations.
Among the interested countries, Portugal has gained prominence. Minister Luis Montenegro recently announced that work is underway to reopen the Algarve circuit in Portimão, a venue that previously hosted Grand Prix races in 2020 and 2021.
"I am in a position to tell you that we have everything ready to formalize the return of Formula 1 to the Algarve in 2027," Montenegro stated, confirming that the proposal is on track.
New regulations and doubts in the paddock
Beyond the calendar, F1 is preparing for a period of technical changes. Starting next season, the category will enter an experimental period with new technical specifications that seek greater equality between teams and the real possibility of anyone fighting for championships.
However, these new rules have generated doubts and uncertainty. Several drivers have expressed their dissatisfaction, while others prefer to wait to see the results under real-life race conditions before making definitive judgments.
Sprint races and reverse grid
In recent days, Domenicali also presented proposals to further increase the appeal of F1. The calendar currently includes six sprint races, but the executive announced that he would like to increase that number in the future.
He also tabled an idea that could completely change the dynamics of the sprint races: the reverse grid. Under this format, the top ten finishers would swap positions: the first would start tenth, the second ninth, and so on.
“There is a growing desire to move in this direction. I am ready to present and discuss not only more sprint races, but also new formats and new ideas,” Domenicali said.
All of these proposals and changes are still under evaluation. Formula 1 seeks to balance tradition, spectacle, and sustainability, while maintaining its status as the world's premier motorsport. The truth is that the future promises transformations that could mark a new era in the premier class of motorsport.