Argentina’s government is pushing for the return of Formula 1, but a Buenos Aires Grand Prix remains a long-term possibility rather than an imminent reality.
President Javier Milei has pledged to campaign for F1’s return to Argentina after an almost 30-year absence, with the popularity of Alpine driver Franco Colapinto adding momentum to the project.
Buenos Aires circuit undergoing major redevelopment
Argentina last hosted Formula 1 in 1998 at the Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez, which is currently being renovated ahead of a planned MotoGP event next year. Construction began in January on a new pit building and a remodelled circuit, including an extension designed with a potential F1 return in mind.
The changes will increase the track length from 4.3 kilometres to 4.87km. The project is 60% complete and represents a $150 million investment, the largest in the circuit’s history. Once finished, the venue is expected to accommodate more than 150,000 spectators.
“We have the tradition, we have the drivers, and we are now regaining the institutional credibility that these categories demand before a country is chosen,” Milei said. “We have absolutely everything. It is time to go full throttle in this direction. Let’s move forward together at full speed to make this dream a reality. We want to see Colapinto back in the country.”
Jorge Macri, head of government for Buenos Aires, said:
“We are making the most significant investment in the history of the Autodromo de la Ciudad. We dream of the return of Formula 1, which is why we are completely transforming the track and facilities so that it meets all the requirements and becomes an icon of Buenos Aires on the world stage.”
Franco Colapinto took part in a show run in Argentina earlier this year.
FIA support does not guarantee an F1 calendar slot
Argentinian officials received backing from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem during his visit to the country for the FIA’s American Congress. Ben Sulayem met Milei to discuss several issues, including a possible return of Formula 1 to Argentina.
“With Formula 1, today I saw the circuit,” Ben Sulayem told reporters. “A lot of investment is going on. I know there is MotoGP for next year. And the design is by Tilke. As you know, he is one of the most prominent designers. So, this sends a message to us as the FIA and of course to FOM, Mr. Domenicali, that you are serious in what you are doing.
“Can Argentina organise F1? Yes. Do they deserve it? I would say yes. But we have 24 grands prix in the calendar. We can go to 25, but that is extremely difficult. It will be on the officials, on the drivers. So, to us, it’s a matter of a calendar. It’s a matter of a business plan for five years minimum. And your people here, the government, are serious about it. And it is also my responsibility because when I give my word, I deliver. I will make sure that the right message is sent before the meetings start. Rest assured, you have my support.”
The FIA does not have direct control over the Formula 1 calendar. That responsibility rests with F1’s commercial rights holder, Formula One Management (FOM).
F1 return depends on long-term investment
Buenos Aires began exploring a potential F1 return in late 2024, when a government delegation met with Formula 1 officials at the Brazilian Grand Prix. However, talks are understood to have made limited progress since then.
F1 management is considering several more concrete options as it looks to expand its presence in East Asia and Africa. To compete with established venues on a 24-race calendar, Argentina would need to present a long-term business plan backed by sustained investment, rather than rely solely on interest generated by a popular homegrown driver.
Argentina’s planned MotoGP return in 2027 could provide an important test of the country’s ability to host major international motorsport events. However, amid severe economic difficulties, the prospect of Buenos Aires joining the Formula 1 calendar remains a very long-term proposition at best.
Source: www.motorsport.com
