Verstappen says he wishes F1 calendar had fewer than 24 races

Max Verstappen has said he wishes the Formula 1 calendar had fewer than 24 races, describing the 2026 season's schedule as a lot after a demanding run of triple-headers. He noted that the four-time world champion, who became a father last year, finds it harder to spend time with his family while racing so often.

The calendar was originally planned for 24 rounds, but the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in April, linked to the US-Israeli war with Iran, reduced it to 23. Uncertainty remains over whether the planned races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will go ahead.

Fernando Alonso described 24 races as borderline too many, while Lance Stroll missed media day due to illness. Rookie Arvid Lindblad said he is comfortable with the number of races.