FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem pinpoints key challenge in expanding F1’s calendar to 25 races

Mohammed Ben Sulayem highlights the challenge of expanding F1’s calendar to 25 races, emphasizing the importance of driver well-being.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem pinpoints key challenge in expanding F1’s calendar to 25 races

Mohammed Ben Sulayem (via IMAGO)

The 2024 F1 race calendar is the longest ever, featuring 24 races for the first time. Each year, the FIA unveils the calendar, detailing the locations and dates of the races. Before this year, the maximum number of races was 23 in 2022. While F1 is looking to expand further, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasizes the challenges they face in making that happen.

The current Concorde Agreement permits up to 25 races per season, and there’s high demand for slots, with Argentina expressing interest in hosting a Grand Prix. However, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali prefers to maintain the cap at 24, stating it’s the right number for stability.

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Mohammed Ben Sulayem noted that the organization is already at its limits with 24 events scheduled this year. He explained that adding even one more race would create logistical problems. They would need two teams to manage it, making it challenging to handle the current schedule effectively.

You cross a barrier where you need two teams, we can’t have more.

Ben Sulayem told Autosport

Sulayem expressed his concerns about whether drivers can handle the physical and mental demands of a tight race schedule. He stressed the importance of being sensible and logical about what they can realistically manage. Sulayem intends to ask the drivers directly how they feel about the demands of the calendar.

He also noted that it’s crucial to consider the teams and their ability to cope with an increased workload. However, the excitement of having a 25th race in Argentina would bring a passionate fan base and a rich motorsport culture.

Can the drivers take it? I just want to know. Let’s just be sensible and logical about it. Can the drivers take it physically and mentally? This is a question I will ask the drivers. And what about the teams?

Ben Sulayem asked

Mohammed Ben Sulayem explains FOM’s resistance to host 25 races

Amidst the ongoing number of races saga in F1, Ben Sulayem has asserted that he will not stand in the way of F1 hosting a 25th Grand Prix. However, he pointed out that the decision rests with FOM which is currently against adding another race. Both FOM and the FIA prioritize quality over quantity, aiming to maintain the sport’s high standards.

Stefano Domenicali and Mohammed Ben Sulayem (via IMAGO)
Stefano Domenicali and Mohammed Ben Sulayem (via IMAGO)

I will not stop them to go to 25, because it is their right, OK? In the end it’s up to them. But they are the ones who don’t want to add [more races at the moment]. Because they know that it becomes [a matter] of fatigue then.

Ben Sulayem explained.

Certainly, Sulayem stresses that prioritizing the well-being of drivers and teams is essential for Formula 1’s long-term success. He argues that adding more races for entertainment or profit shouldn’t come at their expense. Drivers face extreme physical challenges on the track, so prioritizing their health and performance is essential for maintaining the sport’s integrity.