Formula 2 Announces Revised Calendar
In response to the cancellation of its scheduled rounds in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Formula 2 has overhauled its calendar for 2026. The series will now head to Miami and Montreal instead. The Miami event is set for May 1-3, 2026, followed by the Montreal round from May 29-31, 2026. The 2026 F2 season will now feature a total of 13 rounds, including races in:
- Barcelona
- Austria
- Great Britain
- Belgium
- Hungary
- Italy
- Madrid
- Azerbaijan
- Qatar
- Abu Dhabi
Stephen Cohen's Potential F1 Investment
New York Mets owner Stephen Cohen is reportedly in talks to acquire a 24% stake in the Alpine Formula 1 team. The 69-year-old investor has offered Otro Capital $600 million for the share. Cohen, who began his investment career in 1978, is the founder and owner of Point72 Asset Management and S.A.C. Capital Advisors. He purchased the New York Mets for $2.4 billion in 2020, and his current net worth is estimated at $23 billion. This potential move highlights the growing appeal of Formula 1 to major American sports investors.
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, expressed optimism about the new venues:
“While we were unable to hold the two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia this month, it is fantastic that Formula 2 will be racing in Miami and Montreal.”
In other motorsport news, Andrea 'Kimi' Antonelli secured his first career Formula 1 victory by winning the Chinese Grand Prix driving for Mercedes. He became the first Italian driver to achieve this feat in 20 years.
The calendar revisions demonstrate the series' adaptability to global events that disrupt sporting schedules. The addition of races in Miami and Montreal is likely to attract new audiences and boost the sport's profile in North America. Meanwhile, Stephen Cohen's investment interest underscores the increasing financial allure of Formula 1, which could significantly influence team development and stability in the coming years.
In light of the recent changes to the F2 calendar, the motorsport world is buzzing with news. Notably, Max Verstappen's recent press conference departure highlights the rising tensions and stakes in the competitive racing environment. As Formula 2 adapts to external challenges, the dynamics within Formula 1 continue to evolve, further capturing the attention of fans and investors alike.