F1 and FIA Presidents Share Reactions as 2026 Calendar Unveiled

F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem have made statements following the release of the 2026 Formula 1 calendar. The new schedule was announced on Tuesday morning and will start with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8, concluding in Abu Dhabi on December 6.

Fans can expect a total of 24 races throughout the season, making it one of the most demanding calendars in recent memory. One key change for 2026 is the Canadian Grand Prix moving to May 24, which creates a direct clash with the Indy 500.

Monaco is now scheduled for the first full weekend of June. These adjustments are part of regional groupings designed to reduce cross-continental travel and ease the championship’s logistics for teams and staff.

[McLaren and Lewis Hamilton at Monaco](https://fervogear.com/2025/05/28/news/nascar/mclaren-lewis-hamilton-monaco/) have been key topics in recent discussions, underscoring the race’s significance in the F1 calendar.

North American races, including Miami and Canada, are now closer together on the schedule to improve logistics and lower emissions. Domenicali described 2026 as a new era for the sport, highlighting that the cars will be powered by 100% sustainable fuel and feature all-new technical regulations.

He expressed excitement about Madrid joining the calendar and the arrival of major manufacturers such as Audi, Cadillac, and Ford. Domenicali called the upcoming season unforgettable and thanked fans, FIA volunteers, officials, promoters, sponsors, and host cities for their contributions.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the improvements for efficiency and sustainability. He noted the improved geographical flow reflects a strong commitment to making the championship more efficient and reducing its environmental impact.

Ben Sulayem also highlighted the value of new races, teams, and manufacturers, pointing to Madrid’s debut and iconic brands entering the sport. He underlined that the 24 Grands Prix across five continents demonstrate the global reach of Formula 1.

The 2026 season will introduce the next generation of F1 cars running on 100% advanced sustainable fuels.

Both presidents agreed this shift is a critical step forward for the championship’s future. The introduction of such technology aligns with debates seen around the [F1 flexi wing at the Spanish GP](https://fervogear.com/2025/05/28/news/nascar/f1-flexi-wing-spanish-gp/), showing the sport’s continuous technical innovation.

They expressed gratitude to everyone involved in organizing the packed calendar, including volunteers, local federations, and millions of passionate fans. Upcoming races for the current F1 season include the Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on June 15 and the Austrian round at the Red Bull Ring on June 29.

The British Grand Prix at Silverstone will take place on July 6. Other major events are the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps on July 27 and the Hungarian round at the Hungaroring on August 3.

As Formula 1 prepares for its next chapter, sport leaders have confirmed that 2026 will bring major changes, intense competition, and excitement for fans worldwide. The addition of new manufacturers, race locations, and sustainable technology promises another landmark year for the world championship.

Meanwhile, drivers continue to address challenges and expectations, with [Sainz expressing concerns about Monaco](https://fervogear.com/2025/05/28/news/nascar/sainz-f1-monaco-fear/) that highlight the ongoing competitive intensity.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.