The Belgian Grand Prix will remain on the Formula 1 calendar until at least 2031, thanks to a new multi-year agreement.
Spa-Francorchamps has faced uncertainty in recent years, with the growing number of races on the calendar raising questions about its future. There had been talks of a rotation deal with the Dutch Grand Prix, with the two races potentially alternating every other year.
However, the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort will stop after 2026, having replaced Belgium as the first race after the summer break in 2023.
Under the previous deal, organisers were paying around $22 million USD each year to host the Belgian race, which was one of the lowest payments on the calendar. In comparison, countries like Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar pay around $55 million USD annually.
The new deal is not a typical contract, as the Belgian GP will only be held in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031. It will not take place in 2028 or 2030, with Spa becoming a rotational host. This approach is being used by F1 to meet the growing demand from European venues to be part of the sport. Further rotational hosts will be announced later.
F1 believes that by introducing rotational hosts, it can attract more fans and expand into new markets.
“Belgium has been part of Formula 1 since our first Championship in 1950, so it’s fitting that we announce this important extension as we celebrate our 75th anniversary,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“Spa-Francorchamps is considered one of the best racetracks in the world, loved by drivers and fans alike. It has hosted some unforgettable moments in F1, and I want to thank the promoter and the Government of Wallonia for their ongoing support of Formula 1 in Belgium.”
