F1 2022 calendar reduced, no Russian GP replacement

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February prompted F1 to swiftly announce the cancellation of the Sochi race, scheduled for 25 September, as well as terminating the grand prix’s contract. 

That left a gap on the planned 23-race race schedule, which would have been the longest season in F1’s history. 

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A return to Qatar or even a potential double-header in Singapore were mooted as possible alternatives to fill the vacant slot, but F1 has now confirmed it won't replace the Russian Grand Prix this season. 

It means the 2022 F1 world championship will be contested over 22 rounds, the same number as in 2021. 

It is understood that F1 had good interest from possible replacement hosts but based the decision on whether an extra race would be beneficial for the teams and everyone working within the sport. 

After weighing up the wider costs of freight and travel, logistical challenges and the extra burden placed on personnel, F1 felt dropping a race altogether was the most sensible and efficient decision. 

Potential stand-in options in Europe were not viable due to the European Union’s freight rules for non fly away events, which would have resulted in teams having to return to base, unpack and then repack to go back out. 

The decision eases the strain placed on F1 staff, with an extra weeks’ gap now following a triple header of events in Belgium, the Netherlands and Italy after the summer break in August.

Revised 2022 F1 world championship calendar