On June 10, 2025, Formula 1 revealed its 2026 season calendar, featuring 24 races and the continued inclusion of the São Paulo Grand Prix, scheduled for November 6-8 at Interlagos. The standout addition is the Madrid Grand Prix, set for September on a yet-to-be-approved street circuit. The season kicks off in Australia from March 6-8 and wraps up in Abu Dhabi from December 4-6. The Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Imola has been dropped, leaving Italy with only the Monza race. Key changes include shifting the Monaco Grand Prix to June to avoid clashing with the Indianapolis 500, which will now coincide with the Canadian Grand Prix on May 24. The calendar also accounts for the FIFA World Cup final, aligning with the Belgian Grand Prix on July 19, with timings planned to avoid overlap.
The 2026 schedule prioritizes logistical efficiency, grouping races geographically to streamline team travel. São Paulo’s retention underscores its significance in Brazil, a market with a passionate fanbase. Madrid’s debut expands Spain’s presence, joining Barcelona, though the latter’s contract ends in 2026, casting doubt on its future.
- Key calendar highlights:
- Madrid Grand Prix debuts on a street circuit.
- Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix excluded.
- São Paulo Grand Prix set for November.
- Season spans 24 races from March to December.
The season also accommodates cultural events like Ramadan, scheduling Bahrain and Saudi Arabia races in April.
European circuit updates
The Madrid Grand Prix, slated for September 11-13, is the biggest addition to the 2026 calendar. The race, pending FIA homologation, will take place on a new street circuit in Spain’s capital. Spain will host two races, with Barcelona’s Grand Prix scheduled for June 12-14. However, Barcelona’s future is uncertain as its contract expires in 2026.
The removal of Imola’s Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix reduces Italy’s presence to just Monza, set for September 4-6. This decision accommodates new races like Madrid in a packed 24-race schedule. The Monaco Grand Prix, now on June 5-7, marks the start of the European season, avoiding its traditional overlap with the Indianapolis 500. This creates a seamless European leg from Monaco to Madrid, uninterrupted by non-European races.
São Paulo Grand Prix significance
The São Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos remains a highlight for Brazilian fans, confirmed for November 6-8. The 4.3-km circuit, known for its technical curves and unpredictable weather, consistently delivers thrilling races. In 2024, the event drew over 260,000 spectators, boosting São Paulo’s economy. The 2026 race will mark Brazil’s 53rd Formula 1 event, cementing Interlagos as a historic venue.
- São Paulo Grand Prix facts:
- Held since 1973, with some interruptions.
- Hosts up to 60,000 fans daily.
- Features 15 turns over 4.3 km.
- Last Brazilian win: Felipe Massa in 2008.
Save the date 🔒
— Formula 1 (@F1) June 10, 2025
Presenting the 2026 Calendar 🗓️
24 races across the world to crown our champion 🏆#F1 #Formula1 pic.twitter.com/4xe7e8MPM6
Aligning with global events
Formula 1’s 2026 calendar considers major sporting events. The Belgian Grand Prix, on July 17-19, coincides with the FIFA World Cup final in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. While FIFA has yet to confirm the final’s exact timing, Formula 1 has planned the race to avoid direct conflict. The Monaco Grand Prix’s shift to June also resolves its previous clash with the Indianapolis 500, which now aligns with the Canadian Grand Prix. Adjusted timings ensure minimal overlap for fans.
Logistics and sustainability efforts
With 24 races, Formula 1 faces scrutiny over its environmental footprint. The 2026 calendar addresses this by optimizing travel. The European leg, from June to September, keeps races on the continent, while the early season focuses on Asia and Oceania. This reduces unnecessary transcontinental trips, supporting Formula 1’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.
The season starts in Australia, followed by China and Japan, before moving to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in April, respecting Ramadan’s February-March timing.
Americas’ races
The Americas remain a key region for Formula 1 in 2026. The Miami Grand Prix, on May 1-3, opens the continent’s races, followed by Canada on May 22-24. The United States hosts two more events: Austin on October 23-25 and Las Vegas on November 19-21. Mexico’s Grand Prix, from October 30 to November 1, rounds out the region’s races, with São Paulo closing the Americas leg.
- Americas’ races:
- Miami: Urban circuit, debuted in 2022.
- Canada: Gilles Villeneuve Circuit in Montreal.
- Austin: Circuit of the Americas since 2012.
- Mexico: Hermanos Rodríguez Autodrome since 1963.
- Las Vegas: Street circuit, launched in 2023.
Asian and Middle Eastern stages
The season’s first half emphasizes Asia and the Middle East. China’s Grand Prix in Shanghai, on March 13-15, returns after years away, followed by Japan in Suzuka on March 27-29. Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, on April 10-12 and April 17-19, respectively, follow Ramadan. Singapore, on October 9-11, and Qatar, on November 27-29, complete the region’s modern, often nighttime races.
Historic circuits in focus
Iconic tracks like Monza, Silverstone, and Spa-Francorchamps remain fixtures in 2026. The British Grand Prix in Silverstone is set for July 3-5, while Belgium’s Spa race occurs on July 17-19. Monza’s Italian Grand Prix, on September 4-6, upholds Europe’s racing heritage. These circuits, known for challenging layouts like Spa’s Eau Rouge or Monza’s high-speed straights, continue to draw global audiences.
Looking to 2026
The 2026 season precedes a major technical regulation overhaul in 2027, introducing lighter cars and more efficient hybrid engines. Teams are already preparing for these changes. The 2026 calendar balances tradition with expansion, retaining São Paulo while welcoming Madrid. With 24 races, Formula 1 remains a demanding global championship, captivating fans in Brazil and beyond.
