Hockenheim Confirms Interest in F1 Return

Formula 1 could be set for a return to Germany, with Hockenheim confirming its interest in rejoining the calendar after nearly a decade away.

The circuit last hosted a Grand Prix in 2019, when Max Verstappen claimed victory in a chaotic wet race that saw Lewis Hamilton crash from the lead. Financial instability forced Hockenheim off the schedule, leaving Germany, home to legends like Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel, without a race despite its rich motorsport heritage.

Now, with F1’s popularity at an all-time high, Hockenheim has re-emerged as a candidate. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali revealed: “In 2026 Zandvoort will host its last Grand Prix, so we’re discussing new additions, including alternating events. There’s Portugal, Turkey, and recently Hockenheim, which has new ownership, has shown interest. But there are very few available slots, so those who sit at the table need financial strength.”

The circuit’s fortunes have been boosted by the Emodrom Group, which acquired a controlling 74.99% stake in August 2024. The new backers are expected to invest in modernising facilities, though Domenicali cautioned that government support will also be vital: “About 90% of promoters receive contributions from their government or related entities. Without that support it’s very difficult.”

Hockenheim managing director Jorn Teske welcomed the renewed dialogue with F1. “There’s no question that we at Hockenheimring are very keen on F1, and we’re very pleased that there’s obviously mutual interest. Having private investors on board will definitely give the project new momentum,” he said.

Teske added that the challenge now is to ensure the race is economically viable: “The top priority is still that a model for organising F1 is economically viable. So now the task is defining the more precise conditions and learning what Formula 1’s ideas are.”

The German Grand Prix’s absence has long been lamented by traditional fans, and while a return is far from guaranteed, Hockenheim’s new ownership and F1’s willingness to engage have raised hopes that the sport could once again race in the heart of Germany.

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