F1 2026 schedule announced with two races in Spain, including a debut in Madrid, while Imola is removed from the calendar.
The upcoming Formula One season is poised to bring exciting developments to the motorsport world, including the introduction of new teams and the debut of a Madrid street circuit. This season, the championship will feature a total of 24 races, including a historic double-header in Spain, with the Madrid race scheduled for September, alongside the traditional stop in Barcelona.
The season will kick off with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8, followed by a week later at the Shanghai International Circuit in China. These locations highlight the sport’s growing global footprint and its commitment to engaging with diverse cultures and fan bases.
Amid these changes, the championship will enter a new era with the introduction of Cadillac, marking its debut as the 11th team in the lineup. This addition underscores the sport’s appeal, with industry leaders like Audi and Ford also strengthening their presence. Audi will partner with Swiss-based Sauber, transitioning them into Audi’s works team by 2026. This collaboration signals a commitment to technological advancement and innovation within the sport.
Looking ahead, Japan will host its grand prix on March 29, establishing itself as the third round in the calendar. The Monaco Grand Prix will kick off the European races on June 7, swapping its traditional slot with the Canadian Grand Prix, which will now take place on May 24. Notably, the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona, while not designated as the Spanish Grand Prix in the next contract term, will continue to support the sport with a race on June 14.
The Madrid race, known as Madring, will feature a unique part-street layout around the IFEMA exhibition center. This new course is anticipated to bolster Madrid’s reputation as a growing destination for international motorsport events. Following Madrid, the FIA Formula One World Championship will conclude its European segment with the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, prior to returning to Abu Dhabi for the season’s finale on December 6.
The scheduling strategically accommodates the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, falling in February and March, by placing Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races on successive weekends in April. This arrangement reflects a growing acknowledgment of cultural practices within the global sporting calendar.
President of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, expressed his enthusiasm for the new season, describing it as a transformative chapter for Formula One, characterized by the addition of new races and teams. This forward-thinking approach is indicative of the sport’s evolution and its emphasis on sustainability through improved logistical efficiencies, ensuring a continued commitment to excellence in motorsport.
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