Stefano Domenicali, the chief executive of Formula One, has confirmed that the sport’s organisers have already drafted a series of backup scenarios for the 2027 race calendar in the event that the hostilities in the Middle East persist into next year. The statement comes as the current geopolitical climate remains volatile, with the conflict between Israel, the United States and Iran already forcing the cancellation of this season’s Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix.
Domenicali explained that while a "standard" schedule will still be presented in the autumn, the governing body is prepared to make adjustments should the situation not improve. In recent years Formula 1 has typically released its provisional calendar for the following season well in advance, allowing teams, sponsors and fans to plan their logistics. For 2027, however, the championship will hold off on a formal announcement until later in the year, giving the organisers a window to react to any developments in the Middle East.
"If the conflict is not resolved, we have a suite of alternative plans for 2027," Domenicali said. "The trigger for any change will be at the end of the calendar year, which still leaves us plenty of time to re‑configure the schedule if necessary." The uncertainty has already forced the sport to consider a scenario where the season could conclude in Europe if the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds are called off. In such a case, the championship would still aim to meet its target of 24 races, a figure that has become a benchmark for commercial and sporting stability.
"We have multiple options on the table that would allow us to keep the 24‑race target even if we lose one or two events in the Gulf," Domenicali added. Beyond the immediate crisis, Formula 1 is also shaping its longer‑term vision for the calendar. The series has confirmed that the Turkish Grand Prix will return, alongside a revived Portuguese round, both of which will replace the Dutch event at Zandvoort after the summer break. The Dutch Grand Prix itself will still take place at Zandvoort from 21 to 23 August, marking the final Dutch race at that venue before the calendar shifts.
Looking ahead to 2028 and beyond, the sport is actively courting new locations. Discussions are under way with several African nations, including Rwanda and South Africa, as well as with Thailand in Southeast Asia and Argentina in South America. The interest from Argentina has been amplified by the surge in popularity that followed the arrival of Argentine driver Franco Colapinto on the grid.
Domenicali noted, "Negotiations are progressing very well in Africa. We are also having productive talks in South America and the Far East." China and Japan remain on the radar, but the organisation is cautious about over‑extending its presence in those markets.
"We have more requests from China and Japan, but for now we want to consolidate our existing race in China before exploring additional venues," Domenicali explained. This measured approach reflects a broader strategy to ensure each Grand Prix delivers commercial value and fan engagement without diluting the brand.
Europe is also re‑emerging as a focal point for expansion. Germany, in particular, has shown renewed interest in hosting a Formula 1 race, with the Hockenheimring being mentioned as a potential venue.
The circuit last featured on the calendar in 2019, but a lack of state funding at the time led to its removal. Recent changes in ownership and investment structures have revived the possibility of a German round.
"Hockenheim approached us first and we have been discussing a possible event. The investment model needs to be different now, but we are open to it," Domenicali said.
The broader European market is gaining importance again, driven by strong attendance figures and growing television audiences. "We are watching the growth in Europe because it is becoming an important market again," the F1 chief added, underscoring the championship’s intent to balance its global footprint with solid regional foundations.
In summary, while the 2027 Formula 1 calendar is still pending official release, the sport’s leadership has put robust contingency plans in place to address any escalation of the Middle East conflict. At the same time, the series continues to explore new venues across Africa, South America and Asia, while also revisiting former European hosts such as Germany. All of these efforts aim to preserve the target of a 24‑race season, maintain commercial stability, and keep the sport accessible to its worldwide fan base.
The next update on the calendar is expected in the autumn, when a definitive schedule will be published, reflecting whatever adjustments become necessary based on the evolving geopolitical landscape.