The Formula 1 calendar for 2024 showcases a major reshuffling, most notably the reintroduction of the Chinese Grand Prix. Shanghai, the host city, has not seen an F1 race since the 2019 season.
After a hiatus due to the pandemic, China is re-emerging on the F1 calendar as part of a significant 2024 schedule makeover. The season kicks off with races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, both slated for Saturdays to account for the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
In an effort towards increased sustainability, the race in Japan is rescheduled to April 7 from its usual slot in the autumn. Furthermore, Azerbaijan and Singapore will hold joint races in September.
The new calendar proposes a record-breaking 24 races, matching the number initially planned for this year prior to the cancellation of the Chinese and Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.
Earlier in the year, Australian Grand Prix officials revealed that Saudi Arabia would host the inaugural race of the 2024 season. However, F1 managed to squeeze both Bahrain and Jeddah into the schedule prior to Melbourne by making these Middle Eastern events Saturday night races. This ensures that Ramadan, which commences on the evening of March 10, does not clash with the Saudi event.
Although initially scheduled to make a comeback this year, the Chinese Grand Prix was cancelled due to the unpredictable Covid-19 situation. The start of the year saw unrest due to ongoing social restrictions, which have since been lifted.
F1’s move towards regionalisation as a strategy to lessen carbon emissions (as part of its net-zero carbon initiative by 2030) has been somewhat impeded by Canadian organizers. They have resisted the idea of pairing the Montreal race with Miami in May. As a result, the Canadian Grand Prix maintains its conventional June date, causing teams to make the transatlantic trip twice within a month.
Stefano Domenicali, the F1 chairman, commented, “Our journey to a more sustainable calendar will continue in the coming years as we further streamline operations as part of our Net Zero 2030 commitment.” Echoing his sentiments, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem added, “We want to make the global spectacle of Formula 1 more efficient in terms of environmental sustainability and more manageable for the travelling staff who dedicate so much of their time to our sport.”
Pre-season testing is expected to take place in Bahrain from February 21 to 23, although the dates are still awaiting approval from the FIA world motorsport council.
Refer below for the complete 2024 F1 calendar:
29 February – 2 March – Bahrain
7-9 March – Saudi Arabia
22-24 March – Australia
5-7 April – Japan
19-21 April – China
3-5 May – Miami
17-19 May – Emilia-Romagna
24-26 May – Monaco
7-9 June – Canada
21-23 June – Spain
28-30 June – Austria
5-7 July – United Kingdom
19-21 July – Hungary
26-28 July – Belgium
23-25 August – Netherlands
30 August – 1 September – Italy
13-15 September – Azerbaijan
20-22 September – Singapore
18-20 October – USA (Austin)
25-27 October – Mexico City
1-3 November – Brazil
21-23 November – Las Vegas
29 November – 1 December – Qatar
6-8 December – Abu Dhabi
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about 2024 F1 Calendar Changes
When is the Chinese Grand Prix returning to the F1 calendar?
The Chinese Grand Prix is returning to the Formula 1 calendar in the 2024 season. The race is scheduled to be held from April 19 to April 21.
How many races are there in the 2024 F1 season?
The 2024 F1 season features a record 24 races, equal to the number initially planned for the year before the Chinese and Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix were cancelled.
What changes have been made in the F1 schedule for the sake of sustainability?
In an effort towards increased sustainability, the race in Japan has been rescheduled to April 7 from its usual slot in the autumn. Additionally, efforts to regionalise races to reduce carbon emissions have been made, though some have been met with resistance from organizers.
Why are the races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia being held on Saturdays?
The races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are being held on Saturdays due to the impact of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. This timing ensures that Ramadan, which begins on the evening of March 10, does not clash with the Saudi event.
What is F1’s commitment towards carbon emissions by 2030?
F1 is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. As part of this commitment, it is seeking to streamline operations and regionalise races to reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-haul flights.
More about 2024 F1 Calendar Changes
- Formula 1 Official Website
- FIA Official Website
- 2024 F1 Calendar Announcement
- F1’s Net Zero 2030 Commitment
5 comments
So the season starts in the Middle East now huh? Its gonna be a thrill, Saturday night races under the desert sky! Just hope the Ramadan timing doesn’t cause any hiccups.
What a season this is gonna be, 24 races! Feels like Christmas came early for F1 fans, well done F1.
Glad to see they’re being careful with the pandemic situation. Hope we don’t see any more cancellations. Its been too long without the roar of the engines.
Man, finally the Chinese GP is back! Been missing it since 2019. Can’t wait to see the racers tear up the Shanghai track again!
Great to see F1 making a push for sustainability. The Japan move is cool, but they gotta figure out the Canada-Miami thing. Flying teams across the Atlantic twice? Not too green!