Formula 1 just can’t quit itself, can it? For 2027, the FIA has confirmed a whopping 24-round calendar and, get this, they’re bumping the number of Sprint events from six all the way to ten. And yeah, that includes Monte Carlo, the track famously called the *worst* of the year, which is now set to host *two* qualifying sessions in one weekend. Talk about doubling down on drama.
Where They’re Racing (And Why One Track Stings)
The 2027 calendar is a beast, spanning 22 countries and five continents, all in the name of “sustainability goals” through a “more efficient geographical flow of events.” Sure, F1, whatever you say. Pre-season testing kicks off in Bahrain from February 24-27, with the championship itself opening at the same venue. Then it’s off to Saudi Arabia, Australia, Japan, and China, before heading stateside for Miami and Canada.
The European swing brings Portugal back to the calendar in June, right after Monaco, which is… a choice. Türkiye is also rejoining the mix in October, sandwiched between Azerbaijan and Singapore. The closing sprint hits Austin, Mexico City, Sao Paulo, and Las Vegas, with Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounding out the final two races. It’s a global tour, no doubt, but that Monaco decision still has everyone talking.
The Numbers F1 Is Using to Double Down on Sprints
So why the big push for more Sprints? F1 is pointing to the data, naturally. Since the format dropped in 2021, total viewership for Sprint weekends is up a solid 12 percent compared to regular weekends. And get this: Sprint Qualifying sessions are reportedly up to three times more popular with fans than boring old Free Practice. The series also says a huge 82 percent of attendees at Sprint weekends feel it adds value to their ticket, while 75 percent of fans believe these events amp up the season’s calendar.
That’s why Bahrain, Australia, Japan, Monaco, and Abu Dhabi are all jumping on the Sprint bandwagon for the first time. Monte Carlo’s tight streets will now see double the qualifying action, whether you like it or not. Montreal, Silverstone, Monza, Sao Paulo, and Lusail are holding onto their Sprint slots, too. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is “thrilled” about Portugal and Türkiye returning, and expanding Sprints to “even more intensity, drama, and wheel-to-wheel action.” FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem says the schedule shows the sport’s “reach” and “combines tradition, innovation, and fan engagement.” We’ll see if the fans truly agree.
So, more racing, more Sprints, and double the qualifying at a track many love to hate. Will it deliver on the “intensity and drama” F1 is promising, or will it just feel like too much of a good (or bad) thing? Only 2027 will tell.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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