The landscape of the Formula One World Championship is poised for significant expansion, following the confirmation that the Portuguese Grand Prix will make a welcome return to the calendar in 2027. This revival has ignited a highly competitive scramble, with no fewer than six countries now officially battling to secure a coveted spot on the sport's ever-growing schedule.
The Global Contenders: From Asian Streets to African Ambition
Thailand has launched one of the most audacious proposals, with its government approving a staggering $1.23 billion bid for a street race in Bangkok. Slated for a potential 2028 debut, this five-year plan is designed to be a cornerstone for boosting international tourism and positioning the nation as a hub for elite sports investment.
In a historic move for the continent, Rwanda has formally entered the fray with a bid to host Africa's first Grand Prix since 1993. The plan centres on a brand-new permanent circuit in Kigali, designed by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz. While negotiations are advancing, regional geopolitical considerations mean a likely debut is eyed for closer to 2029.
South Korea is seeking a return to F1 with a fresh proposal from Incheon for a nighttime street race that could materialise as early as 2027. Officials aim to leverage the city's modern transport and luxury infrastructure to create a more accessible event than the previous Korean Grand Prix.
Historic Circuits and Strategic Replacements
Driven by the rising star of driver Franco Colapinto, Argentina has initiated a major two-phase master plan to comprehensively renovate the Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez in Buenos Aires. The government is actively seeking funding to upgrade the historic venue to the strict FIA Grade One standard required for F1.
In South Africa, the iconic Kyalami circuit has received crucial official FIA approval for the track upgrades needed to achieve Grade One status. Funding discussions with private investors are ongoing, with hopes high for a slot on the 2027 or 2028 calendar, which would mark a hugely popular return for Grand Prix racing to the country.
Meanwhile, Turkey has positioned itself as a strategic reserve. A new 30-year operating lease for Istanbul Park was awarded this year with the explicit goal of bringing F1 back. Turkish officials have signalled they are prepared to step in as a replacement host at short notice should any existing races face cancellation.
A Calendar Under Pressure and a Sport in Growth
The influx of serious bids from these six nations underscores the immense commercial and promotional value now attached to hosting a Formula One Grand Prix. It presents both an opportunity and a challenge for F1's commercial rights holders, who must balance expansion with the logistical limits of a calendar that is already at capacity.
The confirmed return of the Portuguese Grand Prix at the Portimao circuit in 2027 has acted as a catalyst, proving that well-executed events can earn a second chance. This has undoubtedly encouraged other nations and historic venues to formalise their ambitions. The coming years will see intense negotiation, with the final shape of the F1 calendar set to reflect the sport's truly global footprint and its pivotal role in national tourism and investment strategies.
