F1 to Evaluate Cancellation of 2026 Race

Formula One is reported to be evaluating the possible cancellation of one event on the 2026 calendar, with a contingency plan already under discussion.

Two rounds remain in the 2025 season, with Qatar and Abu Dhabi set to conclude the campaign. Lando Norris leads the standings after the Las Vegas disqualification ruling, while Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen share second place twenty four points behind.

Concerns

Industry sources have raised concerns that one Grand Prix scheduled for next year, a season defined by major regulatory changes, may not proceed as planned. The most significant update already confirmed for 2026 is the removal of the Emilia Romagna round in Imola after the contract expired. Madrid is set to join the schedule as a new venue, creating a second event in Spain alongside Barcelona.

Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya will retain its race on 14th June, several months before the planned Madrid event on the weekend of 11-13th September. According to reporting from RMC Motori, doubts have intensified regarding the Madrid project. The report stated that word spread through the paddock during the Brazilian Grand Prix that the project faced serious delays.

RMC Motori visited the proposed site and found extensive construction work with little evidence of recent progress. Large machinery sat inactive and key areas showed no development. The location intended for the pit structure, including garages, race control spaces, and operational rooms, was described as a marshy field with no meaningful preparation.

Back up Plan

A reserve venue is understood to be under consideration. Imola is viewed as the leading option, supported by its proven capability as a replacement host and its previous role in staging the world championship race in 1998. The Italian Grand Prix in Monza is scheduled for the 6th September, and the prospect of two events in Italy is considered attractive by stakeholders.

A complicating factor is the preference of the Santerno organisers for a June slot, while Barcelona is unwilling to shift its established June date due to ticket sales already underway.

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Written by

James Rees

A passionate motorsport journalist from Wales, with over 30 years of love for the sport. A dedicated father of three, working as a content manager, covering the fast-paced world of Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, Formula E, and IndyCar.

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