It can also suit the promoters. Zandvoort’s decision to stop hosting F1 after 2026 points to the pressures — and costs — involved in staging a race. Spa looked in serious doubt just a few years ago, and while the interest from the local stakeholders has certainly taken an uplift since then, a couple of off years may actually suit the track.

The historic Belgian Grand Prix held at the renowned Spa-Francorchamps circuit, has secured a significant new contract with Formula 1 and will remain a fixture on the F1 calendar for four out of the six years spanning from 2026 to 2031.