The Spanish Grand Prix will stay on the Formula One calendar in 2020, the sports commercial rights holders and race organisers said on Tuesday, with the season set to expand to a record 22 races next year.
The Spanish race will continue to be held at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, on the outskirts of the city, for the 30th straight year.
"The decision to continue to stage a round of the pinnacle of motorsport in Spain, a country with a great motor racing tradition, dating back to the start of the last century, is part of our strategy of maintaining Formula 1’s European roots, while also currently expanding the championship into new territories," Formula 1 chief executive Chase Carey said in a statement.
"The promoter’s willingness to be part of Formula 1 going into 2020 is proof of the sport’s ability to act as a catalyst for regions to hold world class events and also to have a positive impact on the area’s economy."
The contract for the Spanish race ran out after this year's event in May won by world champion Lewis Hamilton for Mercedes. That race was attended by 160,428 fans, according to a statement from race organisers.
Spain's confirmation, which follows Mexico signing a fresh three-year deal earlier this month, paves the way for Formula One to expand beyond its current 21 races.
Germany is set to drop off the current 21-race schedule but a new race in Vietnam and a return to the Netherlands have already been announced.
Italy, home race for the sports most popular team Ferrari, has yet to sign a contract extension but local organisers and authorities have given the race the go-ahead.
Formula One teams have already agreed to an expansion of the calendar to 22 races.
Comments
Follow Us
SHARE