The Changing Face of the F1® Calendar
The Changing Face of the F1® Calendar The confirmation that the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve (Portimão) is taking over Zandvoort’s slot under a two-year deal (2027–2028), combined with Istanbul Park’s return on a landmark five-year contract through 2031, has offered a mixed bag of emotions and opinions. This, for me, represents a seismic shift in Formula 1®’s long-term calendar strategy. This evolution brings massive excitement for purists, but it also prompts a crucial debate: Is shifting back toward European and Eurasian stability the right play for the sport’s long-term health? But for me, with the problems in the Middle East, it is what needed to be done; however, I am sad to see Zandvoort gone. The Pure Racing Return: Portimão & Istanbul From a pure racing perspective, both additions are absolute masterpieces. Portimão’s Algarve circuit’s natural elevation changes, blind crests, and wide-sweeping turns proved...
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