More than 22 races a year? "Attainable with good plans"

Liberty Media is thinking about expanding the Formula 1 calendar with even more races. The upcoming season consists of 22 races and that is the most ever. Though that could be in doubt with the Chinese Grand Prix under threat. Franz Tost, Alpha Tauri team boss, said 22 races is the absolute limit. Aston Martin Red Bull Racing team advisor Helmut Marko has a different opinion. 

To have more than 22 races in a year, there is a lot involved in planning and coordinating, and the employees of the teams must also have enough time off. That is why Tost disagrees with Liberty Media because it means teams will need to rotate employees. 

Helmut Marko says in conversation with the Kronen Zeitung that it is feasible, but that it all comes down to good planning and coordination. It is also important to limit travel wherever possible so that people are not constantly on the move.

"If the calendar is well-coordinated, without having to travel criss-cross the globe to limit travelling, along with some restrictions on Thursdays and Fridays, then it is feasible," the team advisor said. 

One of those 22 races, is the Austrian Grand Prix. 

Whether Formula 1 will return thereafter this year is not yet certain, although the intention is there. Marko says: "We see it as a complete package. We have two teams, a Grand Prix and those factors are being discussed intensively. The intention is to continue, but only under the right conditions."