2026 F1 sprint race calendar: 3 new layouts

Also the 2026 F1 calendar takes shape: Madrid city track in, Imola out. 2026 F1 sprint race calendar and the words of Stefano Domenicali

Today, the FIA officially outlined the key dates for the 2026 Formula 1 season. A year that will introduce the new technical regulations promises plenty of surprises—whether positive or negative is up to you to decide. The schedule features 24 races that will determine the 2026 World Champion, with the debut of the new street circuit in Madrid and the likely removal of the historic Imola Grand Prix. The new venue will replace a track that holds significant meaning in the sport’s legacy.

Additionally, the Dutch Grand Prix will no longer be part of the calendar starting in 2027, meaning Max Verstappen will lose his home race, where he has been welcomed each year by a sea of orange-clad fans. Next year will therefore be the final chance to experience F1 on the iconic Zandvoort circuit, just steps away from the Dutch coastline.

2026 F1 Sprint Race Calendar Update: New Entries for 2026

The Sprint race format will see notable changes, with some familiar venues returning and three exciting new additions—two of which are completely new to the format. China and Miami will remain part of the Sprint calendar, while Silverstone makes a comeback in rotation, the very track where the format debuted back in 2021.

The three new Sprint events will be held in the Netherlands, Canada, and Singapore. Each Sprint weekend will follow the same structure: Sprint Qualifying on Friday, the Sprint race on Saturday, and Qualifying for the main Grand Prix also on Saturday, ahead of Sunday’s race.

Yes, it may sound a bit confusing… but it promises even more action-packed weekends for F1 fans.

Stefano Domenicali, F1 CEO: Official Statement

The words shared by Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, reflect pride and confidence in the direction the sport is heading—especially in terms of innovation and fan engagement. At the recent Monza Grand Prix, over 370,000 spectators attended across the weekend, making it the most attended sporting event in Italian history.

“Since its introduction in 2021, the Sprint race has continued to grow in positive impact and popularity. With four competitive sessions instead of two during a traditional Grand Prix weekend, Sprint events offer more action every day for our fans, broadcasters, and promoters, leading to increased attendance and viewership.

We are also proud to welcome Gatorade as the official partner of F1 Sprint, showing the strong interest from such an iconic global brand. The 2026 season will mark a new regulatory era, and the addition of three new F1 Sprint races venues will make the show even more exciting.

I want to thank the FIA, all the promoters, partners, marshals, volunteers, and local sporting clubs for their commitment to making this format a success. We can’t wait to bring even more thrilling races and excitement to our fans in 2026.”

For more info about the 2026 F1 sprint race calendar