F1 and FIA Address Major F2 Calendar Reshuffle

Formula 2 has overhauled its 2026 schedule, replacing canceled races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia with new events in Miami and Montreal to avoid a three-month gap in the championship. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem have both praised the swift action to secure the replacement rounds, which mark the series' debut at both North American circuits.

Why it matters:

This rapid calendar restructuring is crucial for maintaining competitive momentum and commercial stability in F1's primary feeder series. A prolonged hiatus would have disrupted team operations, driver development, and fan engagement, potentially damaging the championship's credibility. The move also strategically aligns F2 with F1's growing North American footprint, introducing the series to key new markets.

The details:

• The cancellation of the opening rounds in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia created a significant gap, with the next event not scheduled until Monaco in late May.
• The F2 organization, led by CEO Bruno Michel, worked closely with F1, the FIA, and local promoters to slot in Miami (May 4-5) and Montreal (June 8-9) as rounds two and three, respectively.
• Leadership Reaction: Stefano Domenicali commended the "great job" by the F2 family, emphasizing the importance of having the championship race alongside F1 as the circus returns to the United States.
• FIA's Dual Focus: Mohammed Ben Sulayem highlighted the calendar's restored balance and the growth opportunity in North America, while also expressing a desire for a swift return to racing in the Middle East once conditions allow.
• Sporting Challenge: The change presents a fresh and immediate challenge for teams and drivers, who must now prepare for two completely new circuits without the benefit of prior racing data.

What's next:

The focus now shifts to the logistical execution of these new events and the on-track competition. All eyes will be on how teams adapt to the Miami International Autodrome and the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on short notice. While the North American expansion is a positive step, the FIA's statement confirms the intention to return to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in the future, underscoring the region's continued importance to the motorsport calendar.