F1 won't replace Russian GP – schedule falls to 22 races

Formula 1 has elected not to replace the cancelled Russian Grand Prix on its 2022 calendar, therefore limiting its season to 22 races.

It was initially believed that the cancellation of the 15th round of the F1 world championship in Sochi due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would lead to another venue being inserted into the sport's agenda at the end of September in order to maintain the campaign's 23-race schedule.

The Losail International Circuit in Qatar was earmarked as a potential replacement, while Hockenheim also put itself on the ranks to host a German Grand Prix.

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However, logistical constraints involving freight being transferred from Europe to Singapore forced F1 to dismiss a European venue.

But financial considerations also came into play, excluding potential alternatives, with the Formula One Group now demanding once again full franchise premiums after a two-year Covid-impacted period during which promoters were given a massive discount on the cost of hosting a round of the F1 world championship.

It's unlikely that teams will frown upon F1's decision not to replace Russia given the already tiring 22-race schedule.

Everyone will therefore enjoy the two-week break between the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on September 11 and Singapore's event on October 2.

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