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Formula 2 Confirms North American Double-Header for May Calendar
Formula 2 will join the Formula 1 schedule for races in Miami and Canada this May, a decision that follows the cancellation of earlier rounds in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-04-09T12:49:52.000Z - 3 min read
Formula 2 has confirmed its inclusion in the upcoming Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends in Miami and Canada, scheduled for this May. The joint announcement from Formula 1 and the sport's governing body, the FIA, signifies a notable amendment to the 2026 championship calendar. This strategic decision introduces a significant North American presence for the F1 feeder series, which traditionally aligns its schedule with Formula 1 events primarily across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The move is expected to bring the intense competition of F2 racing to a new audience base.
This expansion into previously uncharted territories for the championship arises as a direct consequence of recent unforeseen disruptions to its initial schedule. The 2026 Formula 2 season was originally slated to commence with consecutive rounds held in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. However, circumstances beyond the sport's control led to the ultimate cancellation of both of these opening events, creating an unexpected and significant void in the early stages of the championship.
The decision to cancel the scheduled Middle Eastern rounds was officially attributed to the prevailing geopolitical climate in the region. Specifically, the ongoing conflict between the US and Israel, and its broader implications concerning Iran, was cited as the principal reason for the collective decision to forgo the planned races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. This external, non-sporting factor necessitated an urgent and comprehensive reassessment of the championship's early-season itinerary.
For the numerous teams and aspiring drivers competing within the Formula 2 championship, the swift integration of the Miami and Canada events provides an essential opportunity to regain lost track time and competitive rounds. While these new venues do not offer a geographical like-for-like replacement for the cancelled Middle Eastern races, their inclusion effectively restores two crucial competitive events to the calendar. This proactive adjustment is designed to help maintain the competitive integrity and momentum of the season, ensuring drivers have sufficient chances to demonstrate their capabilities.
Staging championship rounds in Miami and Canada introduces a distinctive set of logistical challenges for Formula 2. The series typically operates within a more concentrated geographical footprint, primarily across European circuits and, at times, in the Middle East or Asia. Transporting all necessary equipment, including cars, spares, and personnel, across the Atlantic for two separate North American race weekends within a short timeframe will require meticulous planning and coordination from all participating teams and the championship organisers.
Beyond the logistical complexities, the strategic decision to include North American venues offers a significant benefit by broadening the global reach and exposure of Formula 2. Motorsport enthusiasts in the United States and Canada will now have a unique opportunity to experience the high-calibre racing of the F1 feeder series firsthand. This increased visibility could play a vital role in elevating the profile of Formula 2 and its emerging talents, presenting them to a diverse and passionate new fanbase.