Formula 1, in collaboration with the FIA, has unveiled the sprint calendar for 2026. Next year, six sprint races will be held again, including at the Zandvoort circuit. It has been known for some time that the final edition of the Dutch GP would get a Saturday race, but other circuits will also make their debut on the sprint calendar in 2026. For instance, sprints will also take place in Singapore and Montréal in the new Formula 1 season.
The sprint format will be applied for the sixth time in 2026. The first sprint of the year will take place in Shanghai, followed by Miami. Both circuits will thus host a sprint race for the third year in a row. In addition, Silverstone will return to the sprint calendar. The British circuit hosted the very first Saturday race in 2021 and is now being added to the schedule again. Montréal, Singapore, and Zandvoort are entirely new additions.
‘More excitement on the track’
The format remains unchanged; after the first free practice on Friday, the so-called Sprint Shootout follows in the afternoon. On Saturday, both the sprint and the Grand Prix qualification are on the schedule, after which the weekend traditionally ends with the main race on Sunday. “The 2026 season heralds a new era of regulation, so three new sprint races will only increase the excitement on the track,” responded Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. “I want to thank the FIA, all promoters, our partners, marshals, volunteers, and local sports clubs for the continued success of the sprint.””FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also responded enthusiastically: “The sprint format has become an exciting part of Formula 1, offering high-intensity races and extra entertainment. As we look forward to a new milestone in 2026, with new cars and new regulations, I am pleased that the sprint calendar continues to evolve. The addition of new locations, alongside returning favorites, reflects the ongoing enthusiasm of promoters, teams, and fans.”
