As tensions in the Middle East show no signs of abating, Formula 1 is already drafting contingency plans for the 2027 calendar. The Shanghai International Circuit, which has never hosted a season opener, is now emerging as the strongest candidate to replace Bahrain and Australia.
According to a report from The Race, if the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran continues into autumn and winter, the chances of the Chinese Grand Prix opening the next championship are rising. Shanghai has been part of the F1 calendar since 2004, but its slot has always been either at the end or in the middle of the season.
Now, with the uncertain situation, Liberty Media, F1's commercial rights holder, is considering alternative options. The initial plan was to start the season with two rounds in the Middle East, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, on March 14 and 21, before heading to Australia, Japan, and China in April.
However, if the war continues, that plan is off. Melbourne, which usually hosts the opener, is also undergoing major renovations to its pit building, which are not expected to be completed before March. As a result, Shanghai is emerging as the most logical choice to start the season.
If Plan B comes to fruition, Shanghai would host the first round, followed by Suzuka in a back-to-back, while Melbourne could be scheduled for late March or even the provisional April 4 slot. This would mark the first time since the 1995 Brazilian GP that the season opener is not held at Albert Park or Sakhir.
The decision also impacts the end of the 2026 season. Qatar and Abu Dhabi, which usually close the championship, remain uncertain. F1 must quickly decide whether to keep those rounds or move them, given the still volatile political climate.
No official statement has been made by Liberty Media, but internal sources suggest that the Shanghai option is gaining traction. If it happens, it would be a historic moment for F1 and for fans in Asia, who have rarely seen a season opener in their region.
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