For various reasons, there are chances for the return of three races to the Formula 1 calendar in the future. Of course, various positive factors must align for this to happen. In my opinion, at least one of these races will return to F1 by 2030 at the latest.
Read more Kacper Sztuka halfway through the 2026 Eurocup-3 season
Formula 1 has a complete calendar for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, as they have signed contracts with a total of 24 circuits. If all agreements are fulfilled, and there are no wars/catastrophes forcing schedule changes, a free spot in the F1 calendar will only appear in 2029. There is still a chance that F1, along with the FIA and teams, will expand the calendar to 25 rounds – this is the absolute maximum. Liberty Media has many candidates, and from various statements, it appears they would most like to have one more race in Asia. There are projects on the table for new circuits in South Korea and Thailand, as well as unofficial suggestions of a second race in China. Proposals from Africa keep appearing, but there are no concrete details. Also, remember that in 2028 or 2029, the host of the Saudi Arabian GP will change, as a new circuit, Qiddiya Speed Park Track, is being built there. Knowing the ambitions of that country, they might want to organize two races for a lot of money. There are many candidates, and the list may be extended by three venues in Argentina, India, and Germany, which are interested in returning to F1. In each of these cases, actions are being taken that could enable this within 2-3 years.
Key legal changes in India
F1 races for the Indian GP at the Buddh International Circuit took place from 2011 to 2013, and Sebastian Vettel always won there. They did not fulfill the multi-year contract, and in subsequent years there were rumors of a possible return (also deliberately fueled by Bernie Ecclestone), but nothing came of it. In 2023, a motorcycle Grand Prix was held at this circuit, but only once, as it was not possible to organize it in the following years. In both cases, there were two main reasons for dropping out of the calendars: money and legal situation. Money was always lacking because tickets were cheap and there were few fans. Currently, due to the great popularity of F1 and the enrichment of India, the situation should look better. The key obstacle was the law in this country, which recognized motorsports as entertainment ventures rather than sports. This involved high taxes and significant problems crossing the border (high customs fees). Nothing changed for years, but now there is finally a chance.
In July, the Indian Ministry of Sports formally granted the local motorsport association, the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India, temporary status as a sports federation. The Ministry of Sports stated that recognition may be revoked if the federation does not comply with guidelines regarding financial integrity, management standards, anti-doping regulations, or if any falsifications are revealed. Therefore, this is currently temporary recognition (Source). India as a country is known for extensive bureaucracy, so we can expect several years of such status here. However, this decision already opens the chance for the return of F1 and MotoGP to this country, as it will be much easier to organize races.
The construction of the Buddh International Circuit cost $400 million, and a very modern and huge facility was prepared. The circuit has grandstands for 110,000 people with the possibility of expansion to 200,000. This is a classic example of megalomania, as an ill-considered investment was made. The owners fell into debt, and there were many changes and controversies. Currently, the circuit is part of a transaction, and a huge Indian company, Adani Group, wants to take it over, presenting a plan for the return of Formula 1 within a few years. Additionally, the Indian Minister of Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, announced a few weeks ago the creation of a task force to bring F1 to India in 2028.
India would perfectly fit Liberty Media’s plans. It is a huge country in Asia with many current and potential fans. In my opinion, if they present a concrete financial proposal, the chance of a return is real.
Argentina modernizes the Buenos Aires circuit
As I reported on the blog in January this year, a thorough modernization of the Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez circuit in Buenos Aires has begun – Details. Six months later, work at the facility is progressing according to the planned schedule, with 60% of the plan completed. The circuit is to be ready in a new version by March 2027, as the Argentine motorcycle GP will take place there at the beginning of April. The entire modernization of the facility is being carried out with MotoGP in mind, as a contract was signed in advance. Initially, the circuit was to be built according to FIA Grade 2 guidelines with the option to modify it to Grade 1 in the future to be able to organize an F1 race. During construction, a decision was made to adapt it to the highest FIA requirements now – Source. To this end, the karting track will be moved to another location, and an extension of the circuit layout will be built on this land so that the circuit fits Formula 1. The layout for F1 will be 4.9 km long, with 15 corners and a projected maximum speed of 340 km/h. Additionally, a complete support facility with a modern pit building is being constructed. Several new grandstands will be built, with a total capacity of 70,000 fans, but the circuit will be able to accommodate 150,000 people daily (including grandstands without seats).
Read more How much does the F1 return to Malaysia funded by Bahrain cost?
The circuit authorities regularly send progress updates to Liberty Media. At the end of August, the circuit will be visited by the FIA. Franco Colapinto’s popularity in his homeland is enormous, and his presence gives chances for the return of the Argentine GP. Apparently, the Buenos Aires authorities, together with several private investors, are able to pay a $40 million annual licensing fee. If the situation in the Middle East remains unstable in 2027, Argentina will want to take advantage of this and sign a replacement contract. That is why they expanded the scope of the renovation to have the circuit ready for the next season.
There were 20 Argentine GP races held at the Buenos Aires circuit from 1953 to 1998.
Hockenheimring circuit contacted F1 authorities
If anyone follows events at racing circuits, it is not surprising that the Hockenheimring circuit authorities in Germany contacted Liberty Media. The information recently appeared in the media but had been expected for some time. Since 2024, the circuit has new owners who have committed to investing 250 million euros over 5-10 years. After construction work is completed, the circuit is to meet the highest global standards, as its current facilities clearly lag behind modern circuits. The first task will be to expand the Porsche Experience Centre, build a hotel, and the Motorworld facility, which is to be a magnet attracting car enthusiasts to the circuit. All three projects are to be ready by 2027 – Details.
If the circuit is actually modernized and the owners have the money to finance all costs for Liberty Media, there is a chance for the return of the German GP. A spot in the calendar will be found in a few years, if not permanently, then in the form of a rotational agreement. F1 has lost popularity in Germany in recent years, there are not as many sponsors from this country as before, but there is a revival, evidenced by Audi’s presence in the team lineup. For Liberty Media, a race in this country would be very important.
The Hockenheimring circuit hosted 37 German GP races from 1970 to 2019.
Summary
New potential candidates keep appearing, and the Formula 1 calendar is not elastic. It will be interesting to see what Liberty Media will do, whether they decide to extend the season or have more rotational contracts.
