Hockenheim Approaches F1 About German Grand Prix Revival

Hockenheim has opened talks with Formula 1 about rejoining the calendar, but the circuit's new owners face a steep climb to secure a race deal. The venue, which last hosted F1 in 2019, is investing €250 million in facility upgrades, though F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali says hosting the sport demands a fundamentally different level of commitment.

Why it matters:

Germany has been absent from the F1 calendar since the Nürburgring's one-off pandemic race in 2020, despite its deep motorsport heritage. With Domenicali noting that Europe is becoming "an important market again" thanks to fan growth, Hockenheim's bid comes at an opportune moment. Still, traditional European venues face fierce competition from emerging markets ready to pay premium hosting fees.

The details:

• New owners: The emodrom group, which took a 74.99% stake in 2024, is investing €250 million in a Porsche Experience Centre, hotel, and 'Motorworld' complex.
• Talks confirmed: Domenicali said Hockenheim reached out and preliminary discussions have occurred.
• The financial barrier: Domenicali stressed that an F1 race requires investment "of a different kind" because other nations are prepared to pay high hosting fees.
• Global queue: F1 is evaluating interest from Rwanda and South Africa, Thailand and South Korea, and Argentina. Domenicali noted African negotiations are "progressing very well."
• No second China race yet: F1 plans to stick with one Shanghai event to consolidate the market before considering expansion.

What's next:

Hockenheim's return remains uncertain. While Europe's commercial value is rebounding, the calendar is crowded with bids from new territories. Domenicali also ruled out repeating the Malaysia-Bahrain naming arrangement long-term, insisting F1 needs "credible and consistent" host agreements. For now, a German GP is possible, but hardly guaranteed.