Key Highlights:
- Formula 1 has officially secured a five-year contract extension for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, keeping the race on the calendar through at least 2035.
- The extended agreement provides financial stability to support ongoing modernizations and infrastructure upgrades at the historic Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace in Interlagos.
- Local enthusiasm will be further elevated on the grid, with the 2026 season set to feature two Brazilian drivers: Gabriel Bortoleto for Audi and Rafael Camara debuting for Haas.
Long-Term Future Locked In at Interlagos
Formula 1 has cemented its presence in South America with the announcement that the Brazilian Grand Prix will remain on the championship calendar until at least 2035. Stakeholders finalized a five-year contract extension that builds upon previous commitments, ensuring that the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace continues to host world-class motorsport for another decade.
Officially designated as the Sao Paulo Grand Prix to acknowledge the direct financial backing of the municipal government, the event had previously finalized a five-year renewal on the eve of its 2023 staging, which secured its place through 2030. The latest deal aligns directly with Formula 1 management’s wider commercial strategy of locking down key, heritage-rich markets on extended tenures. The arrangement also grants municipal authorities and promoters the long-term investment horizon necessary to amortize major upgrades to the circuit’s aging infrastructure.
Stakeholders Applaud Strategic Partnership and Economic Impact
Formula 1 leadership emphasized the deep cultural footprint the sport shares with the country while formally confirming the ten-year runway. Formula 1 President and Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali highlighted the shared heritage between the series and the host venue.
“Brazil is an important part of Formula 1’s history and our future, and I am delighted that this five-year extension will see us continue racing in Sao Paulo until 2035,” said F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali. “The passion of our Brazilian fans is extraordinary, and every time we return to Interlagos we feel their energy in the grandstands and in the city of Sao Paulo.”
“This agreement underlines our long-term commitment to Brazil. Together, we will build on this success and make the experience even better for our fans in the years ahead.”
The city’s administration also reaffirmed its dedication to the Grand Prix, citing massive financial returns. Sao Paulo Mayor Ricardo Nunes emphasized the broader economic windfalls generated by the international spectacle, noting: “It boosts the economy, creates jobs, strengthens tourism and raises our city’s international profile.”
According to event figures, the prior edition of the race drew an aggregate attendance of 303,000 spectators and generated an estimated R$2.3 billion in economic impact for the city of Sao Paulo.
Expressing gratitude for the collaboration between municipal leadership and commercial rights holders, Event CEO Alan Adler stated: “The extension of the contract of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix until 2035 is a source of immense pride, and represents recognition of work built on dedication, investment and a long-term vision.”
“I would like to thank Stefano Domenicali and Formula 1 for their trust and partnership, as well as Mayor Ricardo Nunes and Sao Paulo City Council for their extraordinary support and ongoing investment in the modernisation of Interlagos. This partnership has been fundamental to the growth and success of the event.”
Home Heroes and Heritage Fuel Interlagos Renaissance
The Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace has been a foundational pillar of Formula 1 since the Brazilian Grand Prix permanently returned to the Sao Paulo circuit in 1990 after a tenure in Rio de Janeiro. Beyond its storied past, the venue is capitalizing on Formula 1’s ongoing global surge in fan interest, augmented by an upcoming resurgence of local representation.
For the first time in ten years, Brazilian spectators will have multiple compatriots to support simultaneously on the grid. The 2026 championship lineup includes Gabriel Bortoleto racing for Audi alongside Haas rookie Rafael Camara, ensuring strong local ties to accompany the venue’s guaranteed calendar slot through 2035.
Why This Matters
Formula 1 has increasingly pursued extended promoter agreements to secure high-value markets against shifting global logistics and competitive bids from prospective hosts. By confirming Interlagos through 2035, series organizers safeguard one of the calendar’s classic circuits while guaranteeing continuous funding for facility modernizations. For the city of Sao Paulo, the long-term deal guarantees sustained international visibility, massive tourist revenue, and a stage for the next generation of Brazilian driving talent arriving on the grid in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Until what year is the Sao Paulo Grand Prix contracted to remain in F1?
Following the latest five-year extension, the Sao Paulo Grand Prix is contracted to remain on the Formula 1 calendar until at least 2035.
Why was the previous deal extended early?
While the previous agreement ran until 2030, Formula 1 management and local stakeholders sought long-term stability to justify and fund capital expenditures required for the ongoing modernization of the Interlagos facility.
Which Brazilian drivers will be competing in upcoming seasons?
Starting with the 2026 season, Brazil will have two representatives on the Formula 1 grid: Gabriel Bortoleto driving for Audi and debutant Rafael Camara competing for Haas.
