• Thu. Nov 21st, 2024

Good and bad news for European F1 tracks: These events might rotate…..

ByAdmin

Nov 8, 2024 #Max Verstappen

Stefano Domenicali’s recent comments about Formula 1 nearing the reintroduction of rotating Grands Prix naturally raise questions about which races might be impacted. Which tracks will host one year but not the next? Based on contract situations and organizers’ interests, three Grands Prix stand out as candidates for a rotation system.

First is the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. Earlier this season, the Dutch race organizers unexpectedly paused a new contract with Formula One Management (FOM), citing the high financial risks involved. Zandvoort relies entirely on private investors, as there’s no government funding to sustain the race in the Netherlands.

For a privately funded event like Zandvoort, paying tens of millions to FOM every year isn’t feasible, so a biennial event could help ease the financial burden. This rotation, however, would mean Dutch fans wouldn’t be able to see Max Verstappen race at Zandvoort every year. Yet, a rotating schedule would at least keep the Dutch Grand Prix on the F1 calendar, ensuring it doesn’t disappear entirely.

Both Barcelona and Imola are likely candidates for a rotating schedule, along with Zandvoort, which has shown support for Stefano Domenicali’s idea. The future of the Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya near Barcelona is uncertain, as F1 has agreed to host a street race in Madrid starting in 2026. Given the high global interest in hosting F1 races, it’s unlikely that Spain will keep two Grands Prix each season. A rotation system involving the Dutch Grand Prix could serve as a workable compromise.

Italy faces a similar situation. Since returning post-pandemic, the Imola circuit has been a staple, but supporting two annual races in Italy is challenging. With Monza’s historic status, Imola might be the one to step back in a rotation scenario.

The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps is also being considered for rotation, though Belgian organizers are strongly opposed. The Spa circuit relies heavily on annual F1 revenue and local government subsidies, and losing even a part-time slot could be devastating. To secure its future, Belgian organizers are working hard to negotiate a long-term contract with Formula One Management (FOM) to ensure Spa remains a yearly fixture on the F1 calendar.

 

By Admin

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