Iconic grand prix secures unusual new long-term F1 deal

The Belgian Grand Prix is to remain on the F1 calendar until at least 2031 after an unusual new multi-year deal was announced.

Spa's place hosting the grand prix has been under severe threat in recent years with the expansion of the calendar, with a potential bi-annual race rotation deal with the Dutch Grand Prix suggested as one method of keeping both on the schedule.

However, Zandvoort is to stop hosting the Dutch GP after 2026, having also taken Belgium's place as the first race after the summer break after a re-jig in 2023.

Organisers were estimated to be paying about $22 million USD per year to host the race under the deal that ended after the 2025 event, due to take place across the weekend of July 25-27th. 

This was among the lowest on the calendar, with Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia and Qatar all estimated to be paying $55 million USD per year. 

However, it is not a normal contract which has been announced, with the Belgian GP to feature in 2026, 2027, 2029 and 2031. It will not feature in 2028 or 2030, with Spa-Francorchamps to become a rotational host. 

This is an approach F1 is opting to take, due to increased demands from European venues wanting to be involved in the pinnacle of motorsport. Further rotational hosts are yet to be confirmed. 

The sport believes it can welcome more fans and reach further markets by introducing rotational hosts. 

"The Belgian Grand Prix was one of the races that made up our maiden Championship in 1950, so as we kick off our 75th anniversary year it is fitting that we can share the news of this important extension," said F1 CEO, Stefano Domenicali. 

"Spa-Francorchamps is rightly lauded by drivers and fans alike as one of the finest racetracks in the world and it has played host to some incredible moments over its many seasons in Formula 1.

"In recent years it has undergone significant work to improve the facility and overall fan experience, and I would like to pay tribute to the promoter and the Government of Wallonia for their dedication and passionate support for Formula 1 in Belgium."

Belgian GP remains

The Belgian GP has become a fan and driver favourite on the F1 calendar, with it being one of the championship's oldest events. 

A deal being agreed has pleased the Spa-Francorchamps area and the country, which is the birthplace of Max Verstappen.

“I am delighted that the Belgian Grand Prix - a must-attend event for Wallonia - has been confirmed on the F1 calendar for several years," said Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Walloon government and minister of the economy.

"The circuit provides the Region with high-quality sports infrastructure capable of hosting exceptional events, and thanks to the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, Spa-Francorchamps, and through it, Wallonia, is placed at the centre of global attention. 

"In addition to this international showcase, the event generates significant economic benefits for Wallonia, as well as for Belgium. The extension of this relationship over several years will also allow the circuit teams to plan for the future, which is hugely positive."

To remain on the calendar, a lot has been demanded of the circuit, which hosts a sprint race this season. 

Its infrastructure has been upgraded whilst the overall fan experience has been worked on, with F1 being keen for European F1 hosts to replicate what American races offer to spectators. 

“We are both very proud of this renewal, which reflects the mutual trust built as we have upgraded our infrastructure and delivered record attendance and fantastic fan experience over recent years," stated Melchior Wathelet, President of Spa Grand Prix, and Vanessa Maes, CEO of Spa Grand Prix.

"This contract extension has once again been made possible thanks to the support of the Walloon Government but also the fans of what we believe is the most beautiful circuit in the world. 

"Together we are strengthening our commitment to the development of our wonderful region.”