Formula 1 has announced an extension of its contract with the Belgian Grand Prix, securing races for the upcoming years but revealing that the event is set to be dropped from the schedule in 2028 and 2030. The extension will cover races in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031, as confirmed by F1 on Wednesday.
In recent years, Formula 1 has been focused on expanding its schedule with more races in the United States and Asia, leading to increased competition for traditional European venues like the Spa-Francorchamps circuit.
The Spa-Francorchamps circuit, known for its high-speed layout winding through forested hills, has been a staple on the F1 calendar since the inaugural championship season in 1950. F1 President and CEO expressed the significance of the extension, highlighting the historical importance of the Belgian Grand Prix in the sport's legacy.
Notably, the absence of the Belgian Grand Prix in 2028 means that F1 champion Max Verstappen, a Belgian-born driver racing under the Netherlands flag, will not have a home race that year. The Dutch GP is also set to be dropped from the schedule after 2026, following the promoter's decision to discontinue the event.
Recent editions of the Belgian Grand Prix have witnessed a strong presence of Verstappen fans in the stands, donning orange to show support for the Dutch driver. This year's race weekend is scheduled from July 25 to 27 and will include a sprint race as part of the event.
Spa-Francorchamps, renowned for its challenging track layout and scenic surroundings, has been a favorite among drivers and fans alike, hosting memorable moments throughout its long history in Formula 1.
As Formula 1 continues to evolve its global footprint, the dynamics of the race calendar are shifting, with traditional European races facing increased competition from newer venues in other regions. The extension of the Belgian Grand Prix contract underscores the ongoing efforts to balance tradition with innovation in the world of motorsport.
