Portugal,Turkey and Germany Line Up for F1 Return
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, speaking in Monza,outlined the prospects for expanding the championship calendar and noted that several circuits which previously hosted Grands Prix are interested in making a return. In particular, discussions are underway with representatives from Portugal, Turkey, and Germany’s Hockenheim, where new ownership has recently taken charge.
Domenicali emphasized, however, that there are very few available slots in the calendar. Therefore, potential organizers must be prepared not only to provide significant financial backing but also to meet modern requirementsA key priority is sustainable development: all promoters will be required to align with Formula 1’s strategy of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.
“We have signed long-term agreements with a number of promoters, which allows them to plan investments for the future. But the level of interest in hosting races is so high that we are in discussions with dozens of candidates. Those who truly want to return must understand the scale of responsibility and the commitments involved,” Domenicali stressed.
He also reminded that in 2026 Zandvoort will no longer feature on the calendar, meaning that Formula 1 is exploring options for its replacement. One possibility under consideration is alternating events: for example, Barcelona has expressed interest in sharing its Grand Prix with another European venue. However, according to Domenicali, the number of such rotations will remain very limited no more than one or two races.
The Formula 1 chief further highlighted that modern Grands Prix now attract up to half a million spectators, which requires enormous effort in terms of energy supply, infrastructure, and logistics. “Organizers must be ready to act in full coordination. Those who are not prepared to meet these standards will not be able to host a race,” Domenicali concluded.
