Formula 1 could have three circuits ready for 2027 if the situation in the Middle East prevents the scheduled rounds from taking place in the region. According to GPBlog, Imola, Barcelona, and Zandvoort were pointed out as alternatives to fill possible gaps in the calendar without the need for a major overhaul of the schedule.
Read more NASCAR Brazil: Arthur Gama aims to regain the lead in Curvelo
The 2027 calendar was announced this Wednesday (16), after an electronic vote by the World Motorsport Council held on Monday. Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain allocated towards the end of the calendar, and teams have already received firm private assurances about the region. Still, there are slots in the schedule that would allow the inclusion of substitute races, if necessary.
Among the options, Zandvoort presents the most curious scenario. The circuit hosted in August what had been announced as its last Grand Prix, after the promoter decided not to renew the contract. The track also built a special relationship with Max Verstappen, winner of the race on three occasions, while the event became one of the main symbols of the so-called orange army.
Even after this farewell, Zandvoort could return to the calendar if one of the contingency slots is activated. This would open the possibility of a new race at the circuit just a few months after its last scheduled appearance in Formula 1.
Read more F1: Verstappen jokes that «it would be embarrassing» to lose a challenge against 100 kart drivers
Barcelona also appears among the alternatives. The Spanish circuit will be out of the season for one year before the expected return in 2028. Imola is considered, separately, the main option to host a possible substitute round at the end of December.
All three circuits have recent Formula 1-level infrastructure and could be prepared to host a race on short notice.
Read more F1: Rosberg warns Antonelli about pressure of title chase: «He is not Superman»
