P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The revelation that the Belgian GP will be held in four of the next six seasons is the first hint of how F1’s rotating races plan will work. Scott Mitchell-Malm explains what you need to know…
The announcement of the Belgian Grand Prix being scheduled for four out of the next six Formula 1 seasons indicates a shift towards managing rotating races within the championship. This approach of rotating venues is not entirely new in F1, with examples like Hockenheim and the Nurburgring alternating as hosts in Germany and the British Grand Prix moving between Silverstone, Aintree, and Brands Hatch in the past. The key element in this strategy is to maintain the annual presence of national grands prix to build audience familiarity and ensure ongoing investments. As F1’s popularity grows, more countries aim to host races, leading to a maximum 24-race calendar with some venues facing rotation or elimination. While long-term contracts are in place for certain European venues, short-term candidates like Imola, Baku, and Barcelona are at risk, with new contenders like Madrid, Germany, and Turkey seeking slots. Rotation offers struggling races a chance to continue, while opening doors for new or previously unsuccessful venues to feature on the F1 calendar.
