Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has indicated that Turkey might rejoin the racing calendar, with the Istanbul circuit being closely considered for a comeback. Speaking before the final Bahrain test, the Italian executive emphasized that while nothing is certain yet, Turkey remains a top candidate for inclusion.
“Turkey is not 100 percent confirmed. We have to wait – but keep an eye on it,”
Domenicali said.
Focus on Permanent Circuits Over Street Races
Responding to concerns about the growing number of street races on the F1 calendar, Domenicali highlighted that upcoming additions will mostly be permanent or semi-permanent circuits. The Algarve Circuit in Portugal is set to join in 2027 as a permanent venue, while Madrid is preparing a semi-permanent track for this year.
“The new ones coming are circuits, not street races.”
Domenicali also mentioned ongoing interest from countries such as Rwanda, Thailand, and South Korea but reaffirmed that the championship will maintain its current cap on the number of races.
“We are not going beyond 24 races,”
he stated.
“These things could happen from 2029 onward, because we have other contracts expiring, so the situation is evolving.”
Plans for Expanding Sprint Events and Revamping Weekend Formats
Beyond changes to the calendar, Formula 1 is exploring revisions to the race weekend structure for the 2026 season. Among the potential adjustments is increasing the number of sprint events from six to twelve, aiming to make the racing experience more engaging from the outset.
Domenicali stressed the importance of evolving the format to ensure every session on track carries competitive significance, addressing criticism that traditional practice sessions have become less meaningful.
“F1 aims to be constantly evolving,”
he said.
“Everyone wants to see an F1 that fights for something from day one. The Sprint was an answer, and we are also thinking about the other remaining weekends to do something in this direction.”
“We will present a package of ideas by the summer.”
Enhancing Practice Sessions and Support for New Drivers
Among proposals under consideration are two consecutive one-hour practice sessions with competitive elements and dedicated track time tailored for rookie drivers. Domenicali acknowledged the importance of protecting valuable track time for newcomers to help them adapt more effectively.
“We’re thinking about keeping every day we’re on track relevant, of course to protect the time the rookies need to get some running in,”
he explained.
“The idea is to have more time for free practice or a session just for them that allows them to gradually get into that environment. On a Sprint weekend, if you’re a rookie, you don’t have much time.”
Return of Single Pre-Season Test and Season Launch Event Considerations
Domenicali confirmed that Formula 1 will revert to a single pre-season test in 2026, following the additional running scheduled for this year to prepare teams for new regulations. He also revealed the possibility of reinstating a combined global season launch event by 2027 to enhance the sport’s communication impact.
“Next year we’ll return to a single pre-season test,”
he said.
“We’re also considering, as we did last year, a possible global presentation with all the teams together,”
Domenicali added.
“It’s a big impact – something like a 25th race in terms of global communication impact – and work is underway in this regard.”
Implications for the Future of Formula 1
The potential return of Turkey and the planned calendar adjustments, alongside innovations in race weekend formats, signal a strategic effort by Formula 1 to balance tradition with modern fan engagement. The cap on races ensures the season remains manageable, while evolving formats and rookie support aim to keep the competition fresh and accessible. Fans and teams can expect official announcements detailing the new season’s structure later this year.
