F1 2027 calendar reveal imminent as Middle East races set to stay

F1's 2027 calendar is set to be revealed in the coming week, with the traditional Middle Eastern quartet of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi all expected to feature. The schedule will go to an e-vote at the World Motor Sport Council on Monday before being ratified and announced in the days following the Spanish Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

With 2027 marking the start of a new regulatory era, the calendar's timing and composition carry major implications for teams, logistics and F1's global footprint. Confirming the Middle East rounds—despite ongoing regional instability—reinforces the sport's commitment to lucrative long-term deals in the region.

The Details:

• The proposed 24-race schedule faces an e-vote on Monday, with an official announcement expected by mid-week.
• Bahrain is slated to open the season on March 14, the first weekend after Ramadan concludes on March 8, followed by Saudi Arabia.
• The season then heads to Australia, China and Japan before returning to the Americas and Europe.
• The year is scheduled to close with back-to-back races in Qatar (November 28) and Abu Dhabi (December 5).

The Big Picture:

The delay in confirming the calendar stems from the unsettled geopolitical situation in the Middle East. While all four races are planned, sources indicate back-up events are being prepared for those weekends, similar to how Malaysia's Sepang hosted this year's Bahrain Grand Prix after the original race was postponed. Senior figures insist the plan remains to travel to the region for the season finale, but a holding pattern between FOM and promoters persists, with significant hosting fees at stake.

What's Next:

The calendar should be officially confirmed by Wednesday. However, the status of the Middle East races could remain fluid, with a final decision on potential replacements possible as late as the end of September. Imola is understood to be a backstop for the Abu Dhabi weekend should the race be cancelled.