Formula 1’s Bold Expansion: A New Era on the Horizon by 2027

Formula 1, long rooted in the traditions of Europe’s historic circuits and iconic venues, is hurtling towards a bold new future. With 24 races already stretching the limits of teams, drivers, and logistics, the sport now finds itself at a crossroads. By 2027, we may witness a calendar shake-up unlike any before, as two major projects—Kadia in Saudi Arabia and Kyalami in South Africa—approach readiness for F1 inclusion. These new contenders represent a dramatic pivot toward emerging markets and extravagant spectacle, but their rise comes at a cost: the displacement of beloved traditional tracks.

Kadia: Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Revolution

At the heart of the most ambitious Formula 1 development lies Kadia, a massive $8 billion entertainment and motorsport district under construction near Riyadh. With backing from the Saudi royal family and involvement from renowned F1 circuit designer Alex Wurz, Kadia promises a futuristic circuit unlike any on the current calendar.

From a 20-story-high first corner soaring over a music venue to three high-speed DRS zones capable of hitting 325 km/h, Kadia exemplifies F1’s fusion of sport and showbiz. According to Crown Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Kadia is slated to be ready by 2027, but its full integration into the calendar may happen as late as 2028 or 2029, depending on logistical alignments with other regional projects.

F1 drivers, including Lando Norris, have already voiced support. Norris called the design “pretty crazy” and praised Saudi Arabia for blending excitement, spectacle, and innovation. It’s a clear sign that younger drivers are embracing the evolution of F1 beyond the traditional track-and-grandstand format.

But Kadia’s rise casts a shadow over Jeddah, which currently hosts the Saudi Arabian GP. With limited space on the calendar, officials have made it clear: Kadia is poised to replace Jeddah once the time is right. Though a rotation system is being considered, it’s unlikely Saudi Arabia will maintain two races in the same season long-term.

Kyalami and the African Resurgence

While Kadia represents the ultramodern, Kyalami represents something arguably more meaningful—the return of Formula 1 to Africa. The continent remains the only one absent from the modern calendar, despite its historic significance and growing motorsport culture. Recently, Kyalami received its FIA Grade 1 certification, a requirement for hosting an F1 race.

Owned by entrepreneur Toby Venter, the upgraded Kyalami track has had its safety features improved with better run-off areas, fencing, drainage, and curbs. The layout, however, remains untouched—preserving its legacy and challenge for drivers. “This is a defining moment for South African motorsport,” Venter stated, reinforcing the track’s mission to become a beacon for African racing.

But the road to inclusion is not without obstacles. Political instability and internal financial hurdles in South Africa complicate the bid. Meanwhile, Cape Town and even Rwanda have emerged with competing proposals. Rwanda’s growing economy and the support of F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali make it a serious dark horse.

Still, Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion and advocate for diversity in motorsport, remains Kyalami’s strongest backer. “I’m working in the background to get South Africa in the race,” he said, suggesting he may delay retirement just to race on African soil again. His influence could be decisive in swinging the pendulum back toward Kyalami.

Thailand, Madrid, and the Race for Relevance

Kadia and Kyalami are not the only players eyeing the F1 calendar. Thailand has recently approved a $1.2 billion investment into a future Formula 1 circuit, positioning itself as Southeast Asia’s new hub for racing. With a growing fanbase and substantial tourism appeal, it could become a commercial goldmine for the sport.

Meanwhile in Europe, Madrid’s urban street circuit is set to debut as Spain’s new Grand Prix venue. This has put the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit, a long-standing host, in serious jeopardy. With governmental concerns over hosting two races and growing financial strain, Barcelona might follow the path of Spa-Francorchamps, which is already on a rotational schedule due to similar pressures.

These developments suggest a zero-sum game: for every new circuit that enters, one must leave. And given the already maxed-out 24-race calendar, some cherished names may soon vanish.

What Could Be Lost?

As F1 pushes further into untapped markets, it risks alienating fans who value heritage and purity. Tracks like Spa, Silverstone, Monza, and Suzuka represent the soul of the sport. While none are immediately under threat, circuits such as Barcelona, Paul Ricard, Zandvoort, and even Imola—which already dropped off the calendar in 2024—could soon make way for newer, more lucrative venues.

The reality is that Formula 1 is no longer just a sport—it’s a global entertainment product. Every venue must now prove not just racing excellence, but also tourism potential, VIP access, hospitality capacity, and media appeal. In this new world, a flashy night race in Bangkok or a futuristic circuit in Saudi Arabia might beat out a cold, rainy weekend in Belgium.

Tradition vs Transformation

The drivers themselves have drawn a line. Many insist 24 races is the upper limit for physical and mental sustainability. Already, teams and support staff suffer from fatigue and jet lag due to nonstop travel and back-to-back race weekends. Unless Formula 1 implements a rotational calendar—where some tracks appear every other year—there’s little room for expansion without sacrifices.

But sacrifices will come. Whether it’s Barcelona giving way to Madrid, or Spa rotating with a Thai or African GP, Formula 1’s future is clearly one of geographic expansion and commercial evolution.

Conclusion: A New Era is Inevitable

By 2027, Formula 1 could look vastly different from today. Kadia will likely redefine the concept of a Grand Prix weekend with its futuristic infrastructure and entertainment-first model. Kyalami may finally bring the sport back to Africa, helped by the persistent advocacy of Lewis Hamilton. Thailand, Cape Town, and even Rwanda are lurking in the shadows, waiting for their moment.

What’s certain is that change is coming—and fast. The sport is no longer bound by its European roots. In the pursuit of profit, growth, and spectacle, the Formula 1 calendar will evolve to reflect a new world order. The only question that remains: which tracks will be lost in the process?

Full Video: