F1 DROPS RACE FROM CALENDAR

The Russian Grand Prix will not be replaced on the Formula 1 calendar this year, reducing the season to 22 races.

Russia’s event, originally scheduled for Sochi Autodrom from September 23-25, was removed from the calendar on February 25 following the nation’s invasion of Ukraine.

Subsequently, Formula 1 also announced that it had terminated its contract with Russia, meaning that the country will not hold a race of the world championship for the foreseeable future.

There was plenty of speculation over whether a replacement event would be announced and where it would be held, with Qatar, Turkey and Singapore leading a list of potential suitors.

However, it has now been announced that there will be no additional Grand Prix added to the calendar and the 2022 calendar will consist of 22 races.

As it stands, the Italian Grand Prix on September 9-11 will be followed by the Singapore Grand Prix on September 30 – October 2, giving teams a sizeable three-week break between rounds.

While Qatar has missed out on a spot on the 2022 calendar, the country will host a round in 2023.

Las Vegas will also host Formula 1 next year, bringing the spectacle of premier open wheel racing to the streets of ‘Sin City’.

Formula 1 returns this weekend with the Spanish Grand Prix at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc currently leads the championship, sitting 19 points ahead of Red Bull Racing rival Max Verstappen who has taken victory in the last two races.

Ferrari tops the Constructors’ standings, ahead of Red Bull.

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