When is the next Formula 1 Grand Prix? Race calendar on hold for a month

Apr 1, 2026 - 10:00

The Formula 1 2026 season is set for an unscheduled month-long break, with action not resuming until May at the Miami Grand Prix.

Mercedes have kicked things off strongly this year, winning all three races in Australia, China and Japan.

Bahrain '25 race start — Motorsport fans won’t be able to watch this year’s action in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia

George Russell won in dominant fashion at Albert Park, ahead of his teammate to secure a Silver Arrows one-two.

However, teenager Kimi Antonelli has been able to get the better of his more experienced teammate in the last two weekends, securing his maiden Grand Prix win in Shanghai.

The Italian driver then became the youngest championship leader ever as he went nine points clear at the top of the drivers’ standings after his second win at Suzuka.

Throughout the season, Max Verstappen has also expressed his concern over the new regulations and has been unable to finish in the top five in any race so far, suffering a DNF in Japan.

The four-time champion has suggested he may not remain in the sport following Red Bull’s lack of competitiveness.

Ferrari look competitive with Lewis Hamilton achieving his first podium for the Italian team in China.

While McLaren were unable to start either car at the Shanghai International Circuit, on a positive note, Oscar Piastri finished on the second step of the podium in Japan, with Lando Norris also securing crucial points.

After a dramatic Japanese Grand Prix, there was originally meant to be a double-header in the Middle East but the organisers have been forced to cancel those races.

Why is there such a long break?

The choice was made after safety concerns grew due to rising tensions in the region, with the situation appearing too unstable.

The cancellation was confirmed in March, a month before the events were set to happen.

Max Verstappen speaking to media — Verstappen told press after the Japanese Grand Prix he has a lot to think about regarding his future in the sport

Saudi Arabian GP — The last time a Grand Prix was cancelled was in 2023 at Imola due to floods

Formula 1’s sporting logistics did not align with the situation, as equipment and chassis would have needed to travel through the blocked Strait of Hormuz.

While there have been rumours the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix might be rescheduled, it would ultimately be an impractical solution.

The existing calendar restricts Formula 1 from being able to move around races without causing a wider disruption.

Additionally, it’s unknown if the situation could escalate or when postponed races could safely take place, therefore, it is clearer to cancel Grands Prix outright.

This could affect the championship battle as two fewer races resulting in a tighter points total.

The five-week break could also give teams more time and opportunity to catch up with data regarding the new regulations.

Norris celebrated wildly with his team when he won his first Grand Prix

What race is next?

The Miami Grand Prix is next up and will be held on May 1-3 at the Miami International Autodrome.

The last two races held in the Sunshine State were won by a Mclaren drivers and 2024 marked Norris’ maiden race win.

Both drivers seem to have fond memories of the track, with the reigning world champion saying in 2024 after his first win: “About time!

“What a race. It’s been a long time coming, but finally I’ve managed to do it.

“I’m so happy for my whole team, I finally delivered for them. A long day, tough race, but finally on top, so I’m over the moon.”

It is the second Sprint race weekend of the season with the first winner of the shorter format in 2026 being Russell.

It will be the first time this year that UK fans won’t have to get up at the crack of dawn, as the timings will be more suited to the European time zone.