Formula 1 has unveiled its 2027 race calendar, confirming a record‑breaking increase in Sprint race weekends from six to ten. The season will kick off in Bahrain, where a four‑day pre‑season test is set for 24‑27 February, followed by a Sprint‑format opening weekend on 12‑14 March. This announcement also confirms the return of two historic venues – Portugal’s Portimão circuit and Turkey’s Istanbul Park – while confirming the removal of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort for the upcoming year.

The new schedule maintains a total of 24 Grand Prix events for the fourth year running, spreading across five continents and delivering a mix of classic tracks and newer additions. Notably, the Spanish Grand Prix at Barcelona will move into a rotating arrangement with Belgium’s Spa‑Francorchamps, meaning Barcelona will host races in even‑numbered years from 2028, while Spa will take the odd‑numbered slots starting in 2027.

This shift creates a balanced calendar that keeps both iconic circuits in the mix without over‑loading any single season. The expanded Sprint programme is a central theme of the 2027 plan. Ten weekends will now feature the shorter, more intense Sprint race, offering fans an additional competitive session and a second chance at podium points.

After the Bahrain opener, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will follow a week later, also as a Sprint weekend. Australia returns to the third slot in early April and will host a Sprint, as will Japan’s race later in the month. China will close a three‑race swing, completing a busy early‑season block.

May sees the Miami Grand Prix retain its traditional early‑May slot, after which the calendar introduces Sprint weekends in Canada and, for the first time, in Monaco. The Principality’s street circuit will host two qualifying sessions, promising extra excitement for spectators along the Monte Carlo waterfront.

Mid‑June brings the revived Portuguese Grand Prix, and a Sprint weekend is scheduled for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone on 2‑4 July. Austria’s race at the Red Bull Ring will shift to follow the British event, providing a seamless transition for teams and fans. A back‑to‑back pairing of Belgium and Hungary marks the start of the summer break, after which the series returns in early September with a Sprint round at Italy’s historic Monza circuit.

This will be the first race after a five‑week hiatus – a longer pause than usual – giving teams additional development time. The Spanish Grand Prix will then move to Madrid’s Circuit de Barcelona‑Catalunya a week later. A triple‑header comprising Azerbaijan, Turkey and Singapore follows, before the traditional Americas swing in October and November, featuring races in Austin, Mexico City and Brazil.

The Brazilian round will also be a Sprint weekend, adding to the season’s climax. Las Vegas will host the only Saturday race of the year, though it will still be broadcast as a Sunday morning event in the United Kingdom.

The calendar concludes with two final Sprint weekends in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, scheduled for 10‑12 December, wrapping up a diverse and globally dispersed championship. F1 President Stefano Domenicali praised the schedule, describing it as “a spectacular showcase of iconic circuits and vibrant cities that will deliver another unforgettable season.” He highlighted the inclusion of Portugal and Turkey and the expansion to ten Sprint events as a way to give fans “more intensity, drama, and wheel‑to‑wheel action.” Domenicali emphasized the sport’s continued growth, noting that the combination of world‑class drivers, top‑tier manufacturers, and global partners creates a spectacle unlike any other.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem echoed these sentiments, calling the 2027 calendar “a strong reflection of the global appeal and continued growth of our sport.” He pointed out that the 24‑race, five‑continent itinerary, together with the expanded Sprint format, balances tradition, innovation, and fan engagement while upholding the highest sporting standards. The 2027 agenda also addresses logistical considerations that have impacted previous seasons.

The announcement was delayed earlier in the year due to ongoing instability in the Middle East, which had left the status of the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds uncertain. Both events remain on the schedule, confirming that the championship will still conclude in the region despite earlier concerns. For viewers, the season will be widely available on Sky Sports F1, with live coverage of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix kicking off a September triple‑header that includes a Saturday race in Baku.

Fans can stream the broadcast via NOW, with flexible subscription options that allow cancellation at any time. Overall, the 2027 Formula 1 calendar promises a blend of historic venues, new challenges, and an unprecedented number of Sprint weekends, delivering a dynamic and engaging experience for audiences worldwide. The expanded Sprint format, rotating circuits, and strategic geographic spread aim to keep the sport fresh, competitive, and accessible, ensuring that both longtime enthusiasts and new followers have plenty to look forward to throughout the year.