Revving Up for 2024: Formula 1 Unveils Record-Breaking 24-Race Calendar with Enhanced Sprint Races
The 2024 Formula 1 season is set to break records with a 24-race calendar, a significant increase from 2023’s 22 races, marking the return of the Chinese Grand Prix after a hiatus since 2019. This expansion reflects the sport’s growing popularity and its commitment to a sustainable future, as emphasized by F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
Key Takeaways:
- Pre-Season and Early Races: The 2024 season begins with pre-season testing in Bahrain, followed by the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. These early races are strategically scheduled for Saturday nights to accommodate Ramadan.
- Sustainability-Focused Calendar Changes: In line with Formula 1’s Net Zero 2030 commitment, the calendar has been regionalized. Noteworthy adjustments include the Japanese Grand Prix moving to April and the Azerbaijan Grand Prix to September.
- Stefano Domenicali’s Vision: The F1 CEO expressed excitement over the 2024 calendar, stressing the balance between traditional and new venues, and reiterated the sport’s dedication to sustainability and the Net Zero 2030 goal.
The 2024 Formula 1 season promises to be one for the history books. Starting on 29 February and concluding on 8 December, the extended calendar not only surpasses the previous season’s number of races but also reintroduces the Chinese Grand Prix for the first time since 2019. The absence of the Emilia-Romagna GP in the 2023 season only heightens anticipation for the upcoming races.
This year’s schedule starts with pre-season testing in Bahrain from 21-23 February, setting the stage for a series of enthralling races, beginning with the Bahrain Grand Prix on 2 March and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on 9 March. These early competitions are thoughtfully scheduled on Saturday nights, aligning with the onset of Ramadan, showcasing Formula 1’s sensitivity to cultural and religious observances.
A significant aspect of the 2024 calendar is the FIA’s initiative to regionalize race scheduling. This move is a part of Formula 1’s broader strategy to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2030. The calendar sees the Japanese Grand Prix moving to an earlier slot in April, ahead of the Chinese GP, and the Azerbaijan Grand Prix moving to a later date in September. These changes not only streamline the racing schedule but also reduce the carbon footprint associated with the sport’s global logistics.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, has been a vocal advocate for this progressive shift. His statement underscores the organization’s efforts to blend the allure of traditional races with the excitement of new venues. Domenicali’s commitment to a more sustainable and efficient racing calendar aligns with the sport’s environmental goals.
The 2024 season is also notable for its inclusion of six sprint race weekends, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already thrilling Grand Prix weekends. These sprint races, taking place in China, Miami, Austria, Austin, Brazil, and Qatar, offer a dynamic and fast-paced format that is sure to captivate fans worldwide.
In conclusion, the 2024 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be a groundbreaking chapter in the sport’s history. With a focus on sustainability, cultural sensitivity, and an expanded roster of races, Formula 1 continues to evolve, promising an exhilarating experience for fans and participants alike.
2024 Formula 1 Calendar:
- Pre-Season Testing: 21-23 February in Bahrain
- Bahrain Grand Prix: 29 February – 2 March
- Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: 7-9 March
- Australian Grand Prix: 22-24 March
- Japanese Grand Prix: 5-7 April
- Chinese Grand Prix: 19-21 April
- Miami Grand Prix: 3-5 May
- Emilia Romagna Grand Prix: 17-19 May
- Monaco Grand Prix: 24-26 May
- Canadian Grand Prix: 7-9 June
- Spanish Grand Prix: 21-23 June
- Austrian Grand Prix: 28-30 June
- British Grand Prix: 5-7 July
- Hungarian Grand Prix: 19-21 July
- Belgian Grand Prix: 26-28 July
- Netherlands Grand Prix: 23-25 August
- Italian Grand Prix: 30 August – 1 September
- Azerbaijan Grand Prix: 13-15 September
- Singapore Grand Prix: 20-22 September
- Austin Grand Prix: 18-20 October
- Mexican Grand Prix: 25-27 October
- Brazilian Grand Prix: 1-3 November
- Las Vegas Grand Prix: 21-23 November
- Qatar Grand Prix: 29 November – 1 December
- Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: 6-8 December
2024 F1 Sprint Races:
- Chinese Grand Prix: 19-21 April
- Miami Grand Prix: 3-5 May
- Austrian Grand Prix: 28-30 June
- Austin Grand Prix: 18-20 October
- Brazilian Grand Prix: 1-3 November
- Qatar Grand Prix: 29 November – 1 December
