In a surprising move, Formula 2 has announced a supersized format for its upcoming round in Baku. Just ten days before the race weekend, the series revealed it will host an additional qualifying session and feature race, sparking speculation about the end of the 2026 F1 season.
In its official statement, F2 confirmed that the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be the only support event in Baku. F2 CEO Bruno Michel explained, "As Formula 2 is the only support event at the Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix, together with the promoters, we have opted for a supersized F2 race weekend, with one free practice, two qualifying sessions, one sprint race and two feature races." He added that this is the only weekend where the timetable allows such additions, and the Baku City Circuit always provides amazing racing.
Although no official reason was given, it's hard not to see this as a preparation for potential cancellations or reshuffling of the season-ending events. The tense geopolitical situation in the Middle East has put the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, scheduled as the season finale, in doubt. The FIA and F1 are expected to decide on the remainder of the 2026 calendar before the end of this month.
F2 itself insists that the final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will resume with the usual weekend format: one free practice, one qualifying, a sprint race, and a feature race. However, this could quickly change depending on F1's decisions. One option discussed is cancelling trips to Qatar and Abu Dhabi and heading to Imola in late November for the season finale instead.
The decision to add races in Baku also serves as compensation for points if the season-ending races are cancelled. With two feature races, more points are up for grabs, keeping the championship competitive until the end. This is a smart move by F2 to maintain the integrity of the competition amid uncertainty.
For the drivers, this new format demands quick adaptation. Two qualifying sessions and three races in one weekend will test consistency and tyre management. The narrow and challenging Baku street circuit will only intensify the competition. Fans will be treated to more intense racing than usual.
Meanwhile, F1 has just announced that the 2026 Bahrain GP will be held at Sepang, Malaysia, in early October. This shows that the calendar is still being adjusted. Will Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain? We await the official decision in the coming weeks.
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