F1 getting closer to returning to classic South American racing city

The mayor of a South American city has revealed that a classic F1 location is getting closer to returning to the series.

Buenos Aires in Argentina hosted races on and off for 45 years up until 1998, and the city is making a serious push to get back onto the crowded schedule.

The Termas de Rio Hondo circuit in Santiago has been a permanent fixture on the MotoGP schedule since 2014, but this year's event will be the final race at the ahead of the switch to the Autodromo de Buenos Aires Oscar y Juan Gálvez in 2027.

The venue is poised to undergo huge renovations as well as a track layout update which will allow for a capacity of around 150,000 spectators to attend, and Mayor Jorge Macri has claimed that this move could be a step in the right direction towards F1 returning to the city.

“We’re going to be among the world’s leading circuits, like Barcelona and Silverstone," he said, as reported by the Buenos Aires Herald.

"This year we were chosen as the 2027 World Capital of Sport, and today we’re taking another step toward consolidating our global leadership in the sport.

"But we’re not content with that, as we’re challenging ourselves to go further: it’s the first step toward applying again to host Formula 1 - this return confirms that we’re on the right path.”

READ MORE: F1 pundit warns Mercedes 'embarrassing' driver over Max Verstappen pursuit

Can F1 accommodate another grand prix?

On the planned improvements to the venue, he added: “Starting in October, we will be undertaking a complete overhaul of the racetrack, including the track, paddock, pits, safety zones, and the incorporation of the latest technology.

"With this investment in infrastructure, security, logistics, and connectivity, we are positioning the Gálvez at the level of major racing venues, bringing it up to international standards."

The 24-race F1 calendar is already at full capacity, meaning the addition of any new track would force another to be dropped.

Next season, the Spanish GP will be held in Madrid for the first time, with the Emilia-Romagna GP at Imola being cut from the schedule.

Argentina is not the only country targeting a spot on the schedule, with Thailand and South Africa also investing big money in an effort to muscle their way in.

READ MORE: Max Verstappen says former Red Bull teammate 'good choice' for Cadillac F1 project

Related

Formula 1

F1 Sprint Qualifying Today: Belgian Grand Prix start times, schedule and how to watch live on TV

• 3 hours ago

Formula 1

Toto Wolff reveals Mercedes F1 driver priority in major Max Verstappen update

• Yesterday 21:00