F2 expands Baku lineup with additional feature race – could this hint at F1's direction?

The Formula 2 championship has revealed plans for an expanded event during its upcoming round in Baku. This development will include an extra feature race in Azerbaijan and is announced just 10 days ahead of the scheduled race weekend.

This late and somewhat unconventional decision is bound to attract attention, especially as the conclusion of the Formula 1 season hangs in the balance. Currently, the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix face uncertainty over their execution due to the volatile geopolitical climate in the Middle East.

In practical terms, the F2 organizers disclosed on Monday, shortly before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, that they will host a double-header weekend, featuring an extra qualifying session and an additional feature race compared to the standard format.

"Since Formula 2 is the only supporting event at the Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix, in collaboration with the promoters, we have decided to implement a supersized F2 race weekend, which will include one free practice session, two qualifying rounds, one sprint race, and two feature races," confirmed F2 CEO Bruno Michel.

"This is the only weekend where the schedule permits these extra sessions, which will enhance the entertainment level for both the live audience and our fans. The Baku City Circuit consistently delivers thrilling racing, so we’re excited to make the 12th Round of our season quite distinctive."

While the organizers have not clarified the exact reasons behind the decision to expand the Baku event, it’s hard not to perceive it—without being able to confirm—for what it might be: a preparation for the potential cancellation or alteration of some of the concluding events of the season and a means to offset the points that could be lost.

The F2 season finale is still scheduled for Abu Dhabi

"The last two rounds of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will proceed with the standard weekend structure comprising one free practice, one qualifying session, a sprint race, and a feature race," stated F2 in an announcement.

That is the current scenario, but it may swiftly evolve depending on F1's decisions regarding the season's conclusion.

The FIA and F1 are anticipated to make rulings on the remainder of the 2026 calendar by the end of the month, with a rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang, Malaysia, already confirmed for early October.

Among the options that have been discussed is the possibility of scrapping the two trips to Qatar and Abu Dhabi and instead heading to Imola in late November for the season finale.