P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen has given a no-holds-barred stance on the direction of F1’s scheduling, saying that calendars need to be shorter and include “separate status” circuits.
Max Verstappen believes that Formula 1 calendars should be shorter and include circuits with separate status.
The 2026 season calendar features a massive 24-race schedule, with most months being taken up by races.
Verstappen expressed sadness over races like Italy’s Imola being replaced by new circuits like Madrid’s ‘Madring’.
He emphasized the importance of circuits like Spa-Francorchamps, Zandvoort, Silverstone, Imola, Suzuka, and Brazil remaining on the calendar.
Verstappen disagrees with Carlos Sainz, who supports adapting to new circuits and believes they can become classics.
Verstappen’s view resonates with many F1 fans who appreciate traditional circuits, even as established tracks like Spa-Francorchamps face uncertainty.
Sainz, on the other hand, advocates for embracing new tracks with character to ensure the sport’s growth and evolution.
