The 2026 Formula 1 calendar is here, and one of the biggest changes is the departure of Imola. Replacing it is a brand-new street race in Madrid, continuing F1’s growing trend toward city-based tracks.
The Madrid Grand Prix is currently marked as provisional, pending official FIA circuit approval. Construction delays have been reported, but organizers still have time to meet the standards before the scheduled debut in September next year.
Another notable update is the more logical scheduling of the Miami and Canadian Grands Prix. For the first time, these two races are back-to-back in the season, eliminating the awkward mid-season detour to Montreal. Although there is still a three-week gap between them, the change makes more sense logistically.
Monaco and the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona have been moved into June, allowing the calendar to breathe and reshuffle. This change helps create space for the North American round to function more efficiently. Expect higher sunscreen sales as these European summer races heat up.
Belgium begins its new role as F1’s first rotational event, which means it may not appear every season. Spa-Francorchamps will still feature in 2026, but its future will now rotate with other venues. Meanwhile, Zandvoort is scheduled to make its final appearance as the Dutch Grand Prix contract comes to an end. Fans will surely miss the track’s iconic banked turns and energetic home crowd.
Looking ahead to the season’s conclusion, the championship fight will unfold over two intense triple-header stretches. The first includes races in the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. The second triple-header will feature Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, wrapping up the season just weeks before the holiday season begins.
While some fans may miss classic circuits like Imola, the updated calendar reflects F1’s shift toward global city events. Madrid’s inclusion marks another step in this direction, offering both challenges and opportunities for teams and drivers.
As for the title battle, eyes will be on the rising talent and new powertrains. With major engine changes coming for 2026, there’s growing buzz about Mercedes potentially making a return to dominance.
