Formula 1 announces record-breaking 2022 calendar
Just as the 2021 season is nearing its final leg, Formula One has revealed its record-breaking 23-race calendar for the 2022 season after it had been approved by the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council.
The 2021 season was set to feature a 23-race schedule, but the coronavirus pandemic has forced the sport to perform multiple changes to the calendar. In the end, the current season is being contested over 22 races which is a record-breaking number of events in the 72-year history of the FIA Formula One World Championship. The 2022 season is set to break this record with next year’s schedule due to consist of 23 races starting with Bahrain on March 20 and finishing at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi on November 20.
„The pandemic has continued to present challenges to the 2021 season, but the entire sport has shown its ability to react and adapt to the challenges as they have arisen,” read the statement of Formula One.
„While we hope the virus recedes further in the coming months, for everyone around the world, we will continue to closely monitor the situation and work closely with the promoters and national authorities. Due to ongoing pandemic conditions, China will not be included on the 2022 calendar. China will be restored to the calendar as soon as conditions allow.”
President and CEO of Formula 1 Stefano Domenicali said: “We are excited to announce the 2022 calendar as we prepare to enter a new era for the sport with brand new regulations and cars for next year that are designed to create closer racing.
“This season has been incredible so far with great battles on the track, large audiences tuning in and fans returning to the races after the impact of the pandemic. We look forward to welcoming more fans back next season and hope 2022 feels more normal than the life we have all experienced in the past two years.”
“We are very pleased with the interest in Formula 1 from places that want to host races and the growth of the sport and believe we have a fantastic calendar for 2022 with destinations like Miami joining famous and historic venues. The pandemic is still with us, and we will therefore continue to be vigilant and safe – to protect all our personnel and the communities we visit," the Italian said.
Jean Todt, FIA President, added: “The impressive 2022 FIA Formula One Championship calendar is the result of the great work made by Formula 1, led by Stefano Domenicali and his team, in strong synergy with the FIA.
"Over the past two years, F1 has shown remarkable resilience. This is clearly demonstrated by the continued growth of the sport despite the important challenges of the pandemic. The 23 Grands Prix in 2022 will be an exciting showcase for the all-new cars and I am looking forward to it,” Todt concluded.
