The FIA has officially confirmed two new rounds for the 2026 FIA Formula 2 Championship following the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix.
Although the Formula 1 calendar will remain at 22 races this season, the FIA has moved quickly to ensure that its primary feeder series does not lose momentum. Formula 2, widely regarded as the final stepping stone to F1, had been scheduled to race in Bahrain and Jeddah after its season opener in Melbourne. However, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, both events were called off — along with all associated support races.
To maintain the championship’s competitive balance, the FIA has now added rounds in North America. Formula 2 will join the F1 weekends at the Miami International Autodrome from May 1–3 and the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve from May 22–24. These events will serve as the second and third rounds of the 2026 campaign.
The move marks a historic milestone for the series, as it will be the first time Formula 2 has raced in North America. The addition reflects the FIA’s commitment to expanding the championship’s global footprint while aligning more closely with Formula 1’s growing presence in the region.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem addressed the calendar reshuffle, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability within the championship. He explained that the introduction of the Miami and Montreal rounds ensures the season remains competitive and balanced for teams, drivers, and fans alike.
He described the expansion into North America as a significant step in Formula 2’s continued development, strengthening its role as a pathway to Formula 1 while engaging new audiences. Ben Sulayem also expressed gratitude to the organizers and stakeholders who worked to make the additional rounds possible on short notice.
At the same time, he acknowledged the serious circumstances that led to the cancellations, stating that the FIA’s thoughts remain with those affected by the ongoing events in the Middle East. He expressed hope for a swift return to stability and reiterated the organization’s intention to return to racing in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in the near future.
On track, the 2026 F2 season has already begun to take shape. Following the opening round in Melbourne, Nikola Tsolov leads the drivers’ standings with 25 points. He holds a seven-point advantage over his closest rival, Rafael Camara, setting up an intriguing battle as the championship heads to its newly added North American rounds.
With fresh venues and added global exposure, the revised calendar could prove to be a defining chapter in Formula 2’s evolution.