Madrid Joins F1 Calendar as Sprint Races Expand Ahead of 2026 Regulation Shake-Up

Formula 1 has confirmed Madrid as a new stop on the 2026 calendar, adding to Spain’s long-standing race at Barcelona’s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, which has hosted the Spanish Grand Prix since 1991. While Barcelona’s contract expires at the end of next season, the circuit remains in contention to rotate with Belgium, which recently signed a deal guaranteeing races in four of the next six years. Other countries interested in joining a rotation include Germany, Portugal, and Turkey, all of which have strong motorsport traditions but lack permanent slots on the current schedule.

F1 is also progressing talks over a potential new race in Bangkok from 2028, a move that would strengthen the sport’s growing footprint in Southeast Asia.

Since 2023, the championship has staged six sprint weekends per year, a figure that will remain unchanged in 2026 due to the introduction of new chassis and engine regulations, which will place additional demands on teams. However, plans are in motion to increase the number of sprint events to as many as 12 from 2027, meaning half the season could feature the shorter, high-intensity format.

Sprint weekends feature a stand-alone qualifying session and a short Saturday race that sets the grid for Sunday’s Grand Prix. This differs from the traditional weekend format, which includes three practice sessions before qualifying. F1 leadership has also floated ideas such as reverse grids to make the format even more unpredictable.

“Having four competitive sessions instead of two ensures more action for fans and greater value for broadcasters and promoters,” said F1 president Stefano Domenicali. “The 2026 season will open a new regulatory era, and adding three fresh sprint venues will bring even more drama on track.”

Sprints have proven commercially valuable, with promoters willing to pay higher fees to host them, boosting both attendance and global viewership.

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