The Australian GP might not be the season opener in 2027. The race at Melbourne Park has traditionally been the first Grand Prix that Formula 1 travels to more often than not since 1995, but due to contract clauses, logistical considerations, and the timing of Ramadan, the premier class could open the season in Bahrain next season. Formula 1 still has to officially announce the 2027 calendar.
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Between 1995 and 2019 – with the exception of 2006 and 2010 when the Bahrain GP opened the season – the Australian GP was consistently the first race of the season. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the event was cancelled in 2020, and in 2021, the Bahrain GP once again became the season opener on the calendar. The Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit would also remain the first race of the season until 2024. For the past two years, Formula 1 has traditionally started the season again in Melbourne. However, due to logistical reasons, contract clauses, and the timing of Ramadan, the Australian GP could lose the season opener to Bahrain.
Ramadan ends on March 7, 2027, which means the Bahrain GP could open the F1 season on March 14. According to multiple sources, Bahrain is also the logical season opener, as the race would then perfectly align with the test days preceding the start of the season.
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Five Season Openers
In 2022, the organization behind the Australian GP extended its contract with Formula 1 by twelve years. As a result, Formula 1 will travel to Melbourne until 2037. The contract also states that Albert Park may host the season opener at least five times in those twelve years. The first two were organized in 2025 and 2026. Additionally, the contract states that the Australian GP must be one of the first three Grands Prix of the year. Should Bahrain become the season opener in 2027, Formula 1 will still quickly travel to Melbourne afterward.
Formula 1 has not yet confirmed the official calendar for 2027. Last year, the 2026 calendar was only announced in June.
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