Formula 1 has reported a major financial upswing for the opening quarter of 2026, with revenue rising by 53% as the championship’s commercial momentum continued to accelerate both on and off the track.
The sport generated $617 million in revenue in the first three months of the year, from $403m during the same period in 2025. Operating income also improved dramatically, shifting from a $28m loss last year to a $107m profit.
A key factor behind the increase was the calendar difference between the two seasons. In early 2025, only the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix had taken place before the end of March, whereas this year the Japanese Grand Prix was also included in the reporting period.
The cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix also amplified the effect, with a greater proportion of season-based income recognised earlier in the year. Last season, two of 24 races had been completed during the quarter, compared to three of 22 in 2026.
Revenue growth across multiple areas
Parent company of Formula 1, Liberty Media, confirmed that the sport’s primary revenue increased due to “one additional race during the quarter, a higher proportionate recognition of season-based revenue and contractual fee increases.”
The company added that both media rights and sponsorship revenue benefited from the revised calendar structure and stronger commercial agreements.
Other areas of the business also delivered growth. Hospitality income increased thanks to stronger Paddock Club demand and the introduction of new premium offerings, while freight and travel revenue also rose because of the additional event.
Licensing revenue expanded as well, alongside continued growth from activities at Grand Prix Plaza in Las Vegas.
The financial results also appear to confirm that Liberty does not expect Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to return to the calendar later this season, given that the company has based its calculations on a reduced 22-race championship.
Domenicali highlights strong momentum
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said the championship’s strong competitive start has helped maintain positive momentum throughout the business.
“We had a thrilling start to the season, both on and off the track, with increased overtaking and a highly competitive early season,” he said.
“We continue to see positive momentum across our business, including a strong start to our partnership with Apple in the US, a renewed multi-year agreement with our long-standing partner Sky, and the addition of new commercial relationships, including those with Standard Chartered and Marsh.”
Domenicali added that Formula 1 remains focused on strengthening fan engagement while continuing to refine the racing spectacle.
“We remain focused on continuing to evolve the sport – including strengthening how we connect with fans globally and working with the FIA and teams to make the racing product even better.
“Together, we are committed to delivering competitive racing and continuing our industry-leading growth.”
Read also: FIA reveals changes to Formula 1’s engine regulations for 2027
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