Asia, Africa, France… Domenicali takes stock of the upcoming F1 Grands Prix

With 24 events scheduled since the 2024 season, the F1 calendar has never been as full as it has been in the last two years. Stefano Domenicali is not to exceed this limit, and this milestone is dear to the FXNUMX boss. Formula 1. "We will stay at this number, but some races will start to rotate." he explains to the newspaper L'Équipe.

In this vein, while some host countries such as Belgium are preparing to experience an alternation of their calendar dates, and others such as Zandvoort or Imola, will be simply removed in 2026, Africa emerges as one of the two most prominent continents to land on the program. "It's a project that's well advanced, but it needs to be finalized, explains Domenicali. It's not about going there once, but about building solid infrastructure so that F1 can stay there for a long time. In Africa, I would say it's the one (Rwanda. Editor's note) which has the best chance of seeing the light of day."

In this same vein, Asia appears to be Formula 1's long-term Eldorado. In addition to its limited presence to date, the sport is reportedly being strongly encouraged by Liberty Media to expand its presence in China, in addition to attempting to establish itself in India, for example. Meanwhile, Thailand appears to be holding the lead, and for good. "For Seoul, the latest political events have put the F1 file on hold, consents the Italian. Bangkok, on the other hand, is pushing hard. We also met with the Thai Prime Minister in Monaco and we should know more before the end of the summer."

Can the French Grand Prix return?

While Thailand and Rwanda could already quickly grab two of the 24 slots available on the F1 calendar over the next few years, the French Grand Prix has also been discussed by our colleagues at L'Équipe, given the popular support it still seems capable of generating. For Stefano Domenicali, the discussion has not broken off, although a return is still not on the agenda.

"You know how much I love France and how much I think it has its place, he commentedThe contract we signed with Mr. Arnault is fantastic. (F1 has entered into a partnership with LVMH. Editor’s note). Again, this is a long-term project, over ten years, and the collaboration we're putting together is incredible. But to do a Grand Prix, it's like a couple; it takes two. I'm ready, and I've said so in your columns, but you need someone to talk to. Time flies.

While keen to discuss this topic with French President Emmanuel Macron, Stefano Domenicali seems to be turning, both himself and the organisation as a whole, towards other projects, more focused on new territories. Nevertheless, France has ready-made infrastructure, whereas only the visibility and development potential remains to be proven with F1 and Liberty Media.

ALSO READ > Thailand takes major step towards hosting F1 Grand Prix