2026 Formula 1 Season Set to Ignite: Canadian GP Start Time Shift to Avoid Indy 500 Showdown!
The adrenaline-pumping world of Formula 1 is bracing for a seismic shift in the 2026 season as the start times for races have been officially announced, with one critical change that is sending shockwaves through the motorsport community! The Canadian Grand Prix, a crown jewel in the F1 calendar, is moving its race start back to 4 PM local time, a strategic maneuver designed to sidestep a direct clash with the iconic Indianapolis 500, which will also take place on May 24, 2026.
This bold decision comes as F1 unveils its schedule amidst the excitement of six sprint race venues slated for next season, marking a milestone in the sport’s evolution. Historically, the Canadian GP has thrilled fans at 2 PM on race day, but in a bid to accommodate the thrilling spectacle of IndyCar’s blue-riband event, F1 is shifting gears to enhance viewer experience. With the Indy 500 set to kick off at 12:45 PM local time in Indianapolis—identical to Montreal’s time zone—this three-hour buffer will allow motorsport aficionados to indulge in both events without missing a beat.
The Canadian GP’s new slot is part of a broader strategy as F1 navigates its calendar with a fresh focus on regional groupings. This shift not only strengthens the allure of the Montreal event but also underscores F1’s commitment to maximizing viewership across the continent.
But that’s not all! The 2026 season is also set to dazzle fans with two Saturday Grands Prix, a first for F1! The Las Vegas Grand Prix, famed for its electrifying Saturday night races, will continue to thrill spectators, while the Azerbaijan Grand Prix is also moving to Saturday to honor a national day of mourning on Sunday, showcasing F1’s responsiveness to cultural sensitivities.
As fans gear up for an exhilarating season, here’s a sneak peek at the full race schedule, highlighting the strategic start times that promise to keep the excitement soaring all year long:
2025 Race Calendar
Race: 17:00
Australia – March 8
FP1: 12:30
Race: 15:00
China – March 15
FP1: 11:30
Race: 15:00
Japan – March 29
FP1: 11:30
Race: 14:00
Bahrain – April 12
FP1: 14:30
Race: 18:00
Saudi Arabia – April 19
FP1: 16:30
Race: 20:00
Miami – May 3
FP1: 12:30
Race: 16:00
Canada – May 24
FP1: 12:30
Race: 16:00
Monaco – June 7
FP1: 13:30
Race: 15:00
Barcelona – June 14
FP1: 13:30
Race: 15:00
Austria – June 28
FP1: 13:30
Race: 15:00
Great Britain – July 5
FP1: 12:30
Race: 15:00
Belgium – July 19
FP1: 13:30
Race: 15:00
Hungary – July 26
FP1: 13:30
Race: 15:00
Netherlands – August 23
FP1: 12:30
Race: 15:00
Italy – September 6
FP1: 12:30
Race: 15:00
Spain – September 13
FP1: 13:30
Race: 15:00
Azerbaijan – September 26
FP1: 12:30
Race: 15:00
Singapore – October 11
FP1: 17:30
Race: 20:00
United States – October 25
FP1: 12:30
Race: 15:00
Mexico – November 1
FP1: 12:30
Race: 14:00
Brazil – November 8
FP1: 12:30
Race: 14:00
Las Vegas – November 21
FP1: 16:30
Race: 19:00
Qatar – November 29
FP1: 16:30
Race: 20:00
Abu Dhabi – December 6
FP1: 13:30
With these thrilling developments, the 2026 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be one for the history books. Buckle up, motorsport fans—this is going to be an unforgettable ride!
