Formula 1’s evolving calendar continues to stir emotions, particularly with its apparent strategy to reduce the number of European races to just eight—a move confirmed by Belgian Grand Prix president Melchior Wathelet. As Spa-Francorchamps secures a rotational contract through 2031, the decision reflects F1’s global expansion ambitions, but it also raises concerns among fans who view Europe as the heart of the sport.
Spa’s Contract: A New Era
Spa-Francorchamps will host the Belgian Grand Prix in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031, shifting to a rotational model rather than an annual fixture. Wathelet expressed satisfaction with the deal but acknowledged the challenging discussions:
“Formula 1 only wants eight GPs in Europe,” he noted, emphasizing the difficulty of securing a long-term contract.
Currently, F1 has 10 European races on the calendar, but the mechanisms for downsizing are becoming evident. The Dutch GP’s single-year extension through 2026 and the potential rotation of Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya with Spa after 2027 could reduce the number of European races to align with F1’s alleged target.
F1’s Global Expansion
The reduction in European races coincides with F1’s increased popularity worldwide. New venues like Rwanda, South Africa, South Korea, and Argentina are vying for a spot on the calendar, while CEO Stefano Domenicali hinted at rotational European races to accommodate global growth.
This strategy aligns with F1’s cap of 24 races per season, which was hit in 2024, and the desire to distribute the calendar across diverse markets. However, the plan has drawn criticism from fans who fear that iconic circuits may be sacrificed in favor of less traditional venues.
Spa’s Investment and Challenges
Spa’s continued inclusion in F1 came at a steep price. Ahead of the 2024 race, significant investments were made to modernize facilities, including safety upgrades, which helped attract a record crowd of 380,000 spectators. Despite this, the event reported a €3 million loss.
The Walloon government’s subsidies, which previously supported the event, will be limited in the future. Wathelet remains optimistic, stating:
“The amount is higher from 2026, but it is an increase of 3 to 4 percent. We thought that was reasonable.”
The Debate: Tradition vs. Globalization
The decision to reduce European races highlights a broader debate within F1. While expanding into new markets brings financial opportunities and a global audience, it risks alienating long-time fans who cherish the sport’s traditional venues.
Spa, with its rich history and thrilling racing, embodies this conflict. Wathelet hinted that Spa’s rotational deal could expand if new races fail to materialize, suggesting flexibility in the face of fan and financial pressures.
Conclusion: A Balancing Act
F1’s push to cap the number of European races is a reflection of its globalization strategy, but it must tread carefully to preserve its heritage. Spa-Francorchamps remains a cornerstone of the sport, and while its rotational status ensures its presence, the move signals a shift in priorities that could reshape the essence of Formula 1.
The question now is whether F1 can balance its ambition for global growth with the deep-rooted traditions that have defined the sport for decades. Only time will tell if this strategy will keep fans engaged or leave them longing for the golden age of F1’s European dominance.
