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F1 Shake-Up: Belgian GP to Rotate as Asia, Africa, and Europe Battle for 2028 Slot

Carl Smith by Carl Smith
January 10, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
F1 Shake-Up: Belgian GP to Rotate as Asia, Africa, and Europe Battle for 2028 Slot

The Formula 1 world is buzzing with the news that the Belgian Grand Prix will rotate off the calendar starting in 2028. This marks a pivotal moment for the sport as it opens the door for new venues to join the ever-crowded schedule, a decision driven by F1’s explosive growth in the Liberty Media era.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has long hinted that while the calendar has reached its logistical limit of 24 races, the sport is exploring ways to introduce new venues. This would involve shuffling existing races on and off the schedule, creating room for countries eager to host a Grand Prix.

The decision to rotate Spa-Francorchamps, one of F1’s most iconic tracks, signals a clear intent to diversify the calendar. But the burning question remains: which country will seize this coveted opportunity?


The Contenders: A Global Race to Host F1

Asia’s Push: Bangkok and Incheon Lead the Charge

Thailand appeared to have the upper hand in its F1 ambitions, with former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin championing a street race in Bangkok. Meetings between Thavisin and Domenicali suggested a 2028 debut was plausible. However, Thavisin’s dismissal has cast uncertainty over the project.

South Korea, on the other hand, is eyeing a return after its last F1 race in 2013 at the Korea International Circuit. The city of Incheon has submitted a formal letter of intent for a street race and held discussions with Domenicali at the Japanese Grand Prix. Yet, its plans are still in their infancy.

Africa’s Comeback: South Africa vs. Rwanda

Africa’s long absence from the F1 calendar could soon end. South Africa’s Kyalami circuit, last seen in 1993, is undergoing upgrades to meet F1 standards. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie confidently declared that a race at Kyalami is “going to happen,” possibly as early as 2027.

Meanwhile, Rwanda has emerged as a surprising challenger. With President Paul Kagame’s backing, the country aims to build a state-of-the-art circuit near Kigali’s Bugesera airport. Designed by ex-F1 driver Alex Wurz, the track promises a scenic layout incorporating lakes and forests. The FIA Prize Gala held in Rwanda last December bolstered the nation’s bid.

Europe’s Fight for Relevance

While F1 is keen to expand globally, Europe isn’t out of the picture. France is lobbying for a rotational slot after its last race in 2022, and Audi’s entry into F1 has reignited Germany’s desire for a return. The absence of Hockenheim since 2019 has left a glaring gap for a country that once hosted legendary F1 battles.


The Challenges Ahead

While the interest from these nations is undeniable, securing an F1 race involves more than ambition. From government backing to meeting F1’s stringent financial and infrastructural demands, the journey from intent to execution is fraught with challenges.

Domenicali has emphasized that any new addition must align with F1’s long-term vision. This cautious approach ensures the sport avoids past missteps, such as underperforming venues or unsustainable deals.


What’s Next for F1?

The rotation of Spa sets the stage for a fierce competition among prospective hosts. While Asia and Africa hold the potential for groundbreaking new events, Europe’s established pedigree cannot be ignored.

With 2028 as the target, the coming year will be crucial for these nations to solidify their bids. Whether it’s a street race under Bangkok’s neon lights, a return to Kyalami’s storied past, or an inaugural race through Kigali’s picturesque landscape, F1’s future promises to be more global and dynamic than ever.

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