1997 Formula 1 world champion Jacques Villeneuve has spoken out on the changing dynamics of the sport, saying Europe, once the heartland of F1, is losing importance as the series expands to lucrative new global markets. Although European circuits remain fan favorites, Villeneuve believes financial realities and modern demands are redefining the calendar—and the sport itself.
Europe's Declining Influence
Villeneuve minced no words when discussing Europe's declining status in F1. “There are too many races geographically very close to each other. Europe is no longer a big revenue generator for Formula 1,” Villeneuve said, emphasizing that the future of the sport lies in markets like the Middle East, North America and Asia.
The busy schedule leaves little room for traditional venues. Villeneuve noted the tension between preserving F1's history and seeking financial sustainability. “You can't suddenly take races out of the Middle East, the East, North America… And you still have to go to Africa. So you have to open up some markets.”
Spa-Francorchamps: A circuit surpassed by modern F1
One of Europe's most iconic circuits, Spa-Francorchamps, remains on the F1 calendar but faces challenges linked to modern car designs. Villeneuve criticized the way technological advances have diminished the legendary character of the Belgian circuit.
“Modern cars have overtaken the circuit. Corners like Eau Rouge and Blanchimont are no longer corners; they’re just dangerous,” Villeneuve said. “It's a shame because it's a beautiful circuit, but it becomes unnecessary to have a dangerous corner that doesn't need to be negotiated.”
Villeneuve's comments highlight the growing gap between the sport's historic circuits and the capabilities of modern, aerodynamically-loaded cars, which have made once-difficult corners almost trivial.
-F1's African ambitions
Villeneuve also highlighted the need for Formula 1 to expand further into Africa, a continent with a rich motorsport history but limited representation on the calendar. Cape Town recently submitted an application, reviving hopes of a return of F1 to South Africa.
“You probably need two races in Africa, and you need them somewhere else, somewhere in the heart of Africa,” Villeneuve said. However, he stressed that organizing an F1 race requires more than just a circuit. “F1 needs infrastructure—hotels, airports, everything around it. This is an important request.”
The uncertain future of traditional circuits
Villeneuve has expressed concerns about several beloved European venues, including Zandvoort and Silverstone, as the sport's evolving priorities threaten their long-term viability.
- Zandvoort : Villeneuve deplored rumors of his possible disappearance. “It’s bold, it’s incredible. It's a big race, and it's different. You need circuits that look and feel different. Modern circuits often seem redundant.”
- Silverstone : While recognizing the importance of Silverstone, he cautioned that no circuit is irreplaceable. “We thought there would always be a German Grand Prix, always a French Grand Prix. Guess what? They are disposable. Silverstone has the advantage of being close to 80% of the teams, which puts pressure to keep it on the calendar.”
Modern requirements versus traditional charm
Villeneuve also pointed out that many older circuits struggle to meet Formula 1's high expectations for hospitality and VIP experiences. “The problem often with old venues is that they're not VIP enough,” he said. “F1 has made a qualitative leap with the crowds, the guests, the hotel industry, the restaurants. The old-fashioned race tracks lack that.”
A sport in transition
Villeneuve's observations reflect a sport struggling with its identity. As F1 continues to prioritize global expansion and profitability, the future of its traditional European core remains uncertain. For fans, the question is whether the sport can balance its roots with its ambitions—or whether the lure of new markets will leave some of its most beloved venues behind.
