Formula 1 has confirmed that the 2026 calendar will once again feature six sprint events – but the door is open for the total to rise from 2027.
There are four changes compared to this season. Shanghai and Miami remain on the list, but Spa, Austin, Sao Paulo and Qatar have gone, and are replaced by Montreal, Silverstone, Zandvoort and Singapore.
Stefano Domenicali has made it clear in recent weeks that the sprint format is popular with both fans and promoters, and he has been looking for ways to extend it.
However changing the rules to add more events for next season was too complex a procedure.
The current plan is to potentially double the current total and have as many as 12 sprints from 2027, while the door is open for changes to the format, such as a reverse grid, subject to discussions between F1, the FIA and the teams.
Domenicali noted: “The F1 Sprint has continued to grow in positive impact and popularity since it was introduced in 2021.
“With four competitive sessions rather than two during a conventional Grand Prix weekend, F1 Sprint events offer more action each day for our fans, broadcast partners, and for the promoters – driving increased attendance and viewership. We’re also proud to have welcomed Gatorade as an Official Partner of F1 Sprint, demonstrating the huge interest in the event from an iconic global brand.
“The 2026 season will usher in a new era of regulations, so having three new Sprint venues will only add to the drama on track.
“I want to thank the FIA, all the promoters, our partners, marshals, volunteers, and local sporting clubs for continuing to make the Sprint a big success and we all look forward to giving our fans more incredible racing and excitement in the 2026 season.”