Max Verstappen has called for a distinct status for several historic Formula 1 circuits amid the expanding F1 calendar, emphasizing the importance of preserving venues that embody the sport’s rich heritage. Ahead of the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix at Spielberg, the reigning world champion urged the retention of certain classic tracks on the Max Verstappen F1 calendar venues, warning against overcrowding and a focus on quantity over quality.
Verstappen highlights a select group of heritage circuits for long-term inclusion
In an interview with Formule1 Magazine, Verstappen named six circuits he believes should maintain permanent spots on the Formula 1 calendar based purely on sporting merit. These tracks include Spa-Francorchamps, Zandvoort, Silverstone, Imola, Suzuka, and Brazil. He explained:
“Circuits that, in my opinion, deserve a separate status and always belong on the calendar, purely on sporting grounds, are Spa-Francorchamps, Zandvoort, Silverstone, Imola, Suzuka and Brazil.”
These venues are often characterized by narrow track widths, limited runoff areas, and flowing layouts that favor driver skill over aerodynamic advantage. Verstappen’s preference for these circuits aligns closely with his driving style, which thrives in demanding racing conditions.
Concerns over an increasingly packed F1 schedule
Verstappen expressed unease about the current expansion of the F1 calendar, suggesting that the sport’s focus has shifted too heavily toward adding races. He stated:
“If it were up to me, the calendar would look very different and also have fewer races.”
This view contrasts with the trend of incorporating modern venues like Jeddah and Yas Marina, which feature wider run-off zones, tighter corners, and heavy reliance on DRS zones, often criticized for creating less challenging racing. These new circuits typically follow a more standardized design blueprint, prioritizing safety and spectacle over complexity.
Mixed contract stability for historic circuits amid commercial pressures
Although Verstappen advocates for these classic tracks, many face uncertain futures due to varied contractual terms and competition from lucrative recent additions. For instance, Spa-Francorchamps will rotate with other European circuits and will be absent from the calendar in 2028 and 2030, returning in 2031. Suzuka remains secured until 2029, partly due to Honda’s involvement and its unique figure-eight layout.
Silverstone, known as the birthplace of the Formula 1 World Championship, holds the longest commitment, with a contract through 2034. Meanwhile, Interlagos, known for its elevation changes and association with Ayrton Senna’s legacy, is booked until 2030.
On the other hand, Zandvoort, Verstappen’s home race, is only confirmed through 2026 pending new agreements. Imola, revived during the pandemic, faces a deal expiry after the 2025 season with no extension confirmed. These tracks compete for calendar space with increasingly commercial venues like Las Vegas, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, raising questions about their long-term survival.
Verstappen faces pressure at his stronghold Austrian GP amid points race
Verstappen arrives at the Red Bull Ring for the 11th race of the 2025 season aiming to close the points gap to McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Although third in the championship with 155 points, Verstappen trails Piastri’s 198 and Norris’s 176 in a tight title fight.
The Austrian Grand Prix, held over 71 laps on the 4.318-kilometer Spielberg circuit, has been a personal success spot for Verstappen, who has won four times in the last seven editions. However, he carries the looming threat of penalty sanctions, holding nine penalty points on his FIA super licence and just one point away from a race suspension.
Two penalty points incurred during a collision with Norris at last year’s Austrian GP will expire on June 30, providing some relief after this weekend. Despite this, any further infractions in Austria could lead to suspension for the Silverstone race, making a clean weekend vital for resetting his campaign both competitively and disciplinarily.
Red Bull Ring’s unique challenges and Verstappen’s special preparation
The Spielberg circuit offers demanding features, including three DRS zones, a complex uphill first sector comprising Turns 1 to 3, and high-speed corners such as Turns 6 and 9 that require acute driver bravery and precision. This combination suits Verstappen’s aggressive style, making it one of his strongest circuits in the hybrid era.
Adding to the spectacle, Verstappen will wear a specially designed Orange Lion helmet this weekend, created for the Austria-Belgium-Zandvoort stretch, making him stand out visually while underscoring his connection to these distinctive venues.
Potential implications for Formula 1’s future calendar and sport tradition
Verstappen’s call for a “separate status” for historic venues emphasizes the tension within Formula 1 between tradition and expansion. As the sport ventures into new global markets, maintaining tracks like Spa, Silverstone, and Suzuka as firm calendar fixtures ensures the preservation of unique racing challenges that have defined F1. The pressure on these circuits highlights the commercial balancing act that Formula 1 must manage in coming years.
With contracts expiring and new events demanding their place, Verstappen’s influential position and outspoken stance could impact negotiations and future scheduling decisions. How the calendar evolves will shape the sport’s identity, requiring a delicate blend of honoring past glories while embracing commercial growth.
