Russian GP Hopes of F1 Return Summed Up In Three Words

During the pre-season Formula 1 testing in Barcelona in 2022, the Russia-Ukraine conflict broke out. This caused the cancellation of the Russian Grand Prix. Further statements then followed that F1 will not be returning to Russia in light of recent events. The future of the Russian GP is on hold until further notice. 

Will Russia be even able to return to the Formula 1 calendar?

While it is unclear whether the promoters of the Russian Grand Prix have been able to convince the FIA to come back, new reports suggest otherwise. Speaking to the Tass news agency, Russian Automobile Federation boss Viktor Kiryanov gave an update on the situation and it looks very bleak. While he mentioned that Russia continues to remain in contact with the FIA; a possible comeback to the calendar is unclear. And no one knows. 

Phrasing the situation as simply as “only God knows”, there has been no certainty if his country has been permanently excluded from the calendar. “But we are keeping in touch with the FIA, we still work with them and all regulatory papers come to us from them,” he said at the St Petersburg international economic forum.

“We are still involved in everything related to motorsport. There will not be Formula 1 now, but there will be many other things. It’s not good that there will be no grand prix, but it’s ok. We will develop our national racing series instead.”

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With plans to be moving from the Sochi autodrome to the new circuit in St Petersburg currently on hold; Viktor gave alternate ideas. With plans to develop national series and new circuits already receiving certifications from the FIA, competitions can be held.

F1 will not hold any race to replace Russian Grand Prix

Meanwhile, Formula 1 has already put speculations to rest by not putting in a replacement race. A double header in Singapore or a visit to Turkey was the front-running candidate. But as it now stands, Formula 1’s longest season to date with twenty-three races has been cut to just twenty-two races. 

While it will be easier on the team members who have to travel constantly; it also eases up the freight costs. At a time when Formula 1 teams struggle to stick to the cost cap and the rising inflation; one less race should help to lessen the burden. 

However next year, the calendar is set to at twenty-three races as Las Vegas joins the party. The race will be held on a Saturday aligning with the Thanksgiving holiday. Qatar too will join the calendar as they stayed out because of their commitments for the World Cup. 

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Will Russia join the calendar sometime in the future? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.