F1 extends Monaco GP deal to 2031, Rookie sprint race delayed until 2026, and other big updates

F1 extends Monaco GP deal to 2031

The Monaco Grand Prix will remain on the Formula One calendar until 2031, following a six-year extension and a shift to the first full weekend in June starting in 2026. This move avoids future clashes with the Indianapolis 500, which traditionally takes place in late May. Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali said the race is important for drivers and fans, and the change will help make the calendar more efficient and reduce environmental impact. Monaco remains a top event, and it attracted over 70 million viewers this year.

Click here to read the full article at timeslive.co.za

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Rookie sprint race delayed until 2026

F1’s all-rookie sprint race, planned for this year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, has been delayed until 2026 due to timing and organizational constraints. Despite support from all 10 teams, the F1 Commission, led by FIA’s Nikolas Tombazis and F1 president Stefano Domenicali, will reconsider the idea in 2025. The commission also approved a new driver cooling kit for the 2025 season following concerns over overheating at the Qatar Grand Prix. Other topics discussed included empty grid slots and updates to ensure gender-neutral language in race rules.

Click here to read the full article by Connor McDonagh (crash.net)

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Mercedes launches fan tribute for Hamilton's farewell in Abu Dhabi

Mercedes is honoring Lewis Hamilton’s departure with a fan competition at the Abu Dhabi season finale, where 150 winners’ names will appear on his car. This comes after Hamilton announced he’ll be joining Ferrari in 2025, ending his long career with Mercedes. Hamilton won six of his seven titles with Mercedes and set multiple records with the team. Fans can enter the draw until November 26 to be part of his farewell race at Yas Marina.

Click here to read the full article by Dan Lawrence (motorsportweek.com)

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Penske Entertainment Acquires Grand Prix of Long Beach

Penske Entertainment who fields a team in the IndyCar Championship (Josef Newgarden, Will Power, Scott McLaughlin) has now acquired the "Monaco" of the IndyCar races - Long Beach. This is also the longest running street race in North America! “As we prepare to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone, the 50th anniversary of this amazing event, it’s fitting that we have such exciting and important news to share about its future,” said Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach President.

Click here to read the full article at motorsportmagazine.com

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Ferrari signs sponsorship deal with Chivas Regal

Ferrari has secured a multi-year sponsorship deal with Chivas Regal, which will kick off at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The collaboration aims to raise awareness about the dangers of drink-driving. Ferrari’s Frederic Vasseur said both brands share values like excellence and craftsmanship. Chivas Regal’s Jean-Etienne Gourgues is excited to connect with racing fans and promote the message to never drink and drive.

Click here to read the full article by Jake Nichol (racingnews365.com)