The Belgian Grand Prix has been confirmed as a long-term fixture on the F1 calendar, but there is one notable detail in the deal. Spa is the first circuit to agree to rotation.
Spa-Francorchamps’ place on the race calendar has been under serious threat in recent years due to the calendar’s expansion. In order to preserve the Belgian GP, it was suggested that it would be held alternately with the Dutch GP. However, Zandvoort will stop hosting the Dutch GP after 2026. With the change made in 2023, it also gained the status of the first race after Belgium’s summer break.
It was estimated that the organisers would pay around $22 million per year for the 2025 event, when the agreement expires. This figure was one of the lowest on the calendar. In comparison, Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are thought to pay $55 million per year.
However, the new agreement announced is not a standard contract. The Belgian GP will be held in 2026, 2027, 2029 and 2031; it will not take place in 2028 and 2030. Spa-Francorchamps will become a rotational host.
F1 decided to adopt this method so that other races in Europe can be included in the calendar. The other rotational hosts have not yet been announced. It is believed that this approach will help the sport reach more fans and enter new markets.
“The Belgian Grand Prix was one of the races that formed part of our first Championship in 1950. As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, it is very meaningful to share the news of this significant extension,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“Rightly praised by drivers and fans as one of the best race tracks in the world, Spa-Francorchamps has hosted many incredible moments in Formula 1. In recent years, significant work has been done to improve its facilities and enhance the overall fan experience. I would like to thank the promoter and the Walloon Government for their commitment and passionate support of Formula 1.”
