The 2026 Formula 1 season is nearly upon us, with defending champion Lando Norris set to face fierce competition from Max Verstappen and Sir Lewis Hamilton. The globe-trotting calendar will see 22 drivers tackle 24 circuits across 21 countries and five continents from March to December. While some tracks are revered as the best in the world, others are less celebrated. Here, we rank every venue on the 2026 schedule from the very worst to the absolute best.
The Bottom of the Grid: New Doubts and Old Grievances
Starting at the back of our ranking is the brand-new Madrid street circuit, set to host the Spanish Grand Prix from September 2026. Its video simulation has failed to impress fans so far, leaving its ultimate quality a mystery. In 23rd place sits Lusail International Circuit in Qatar, a venue more beloved by MotoGP fans. Persistent issues with extreme heat and excessive tyre wear have raised questions over its suitability for F1.
The lavish but underwhelming Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi claims 22nd spot. Despite its stunning architecture, including a glowing hotel and Ferrari World, the track layout is widely criticised for lacking excitement. The Miami International Autodrome follows at 21st. While it offers decent overtaking opportunities, it's considered the weakest of the North American tracks, not helped by its infamous fake marina.
In 20th is the perilous Jeddah Corniche Circuit in Saudi Arabia. With drivers averaging 158mph inches from concrete walls, it's the calendar's most dangerous track, frequently producing huge crashes and red flags. It will soon be replaced by a new circuit in Qiddiya.
Midfield Battles: Iconic Venues with Flaws
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya ranks 17th and will host its final Grand Prix in 2026. Often maligned for a lack of character and limited overtaking, its reputation wasn't helped by years of pre-season testing that allowed teams to master it completely. Baku City Circuit in Azerbaijan sits 16th. While it sparked a trend for high-speed street circuits after the chaotic 2017 race, recent editions have been dull, despite its absurd castle section.
An iconic name finds itself in the middle of the pack: Monaco takes 13th place. The famous street circuit is the ultimate divisive track, simultaneously described as F1's crown jewel and its most boring race. Las Vegas has surprisingly won over sceptics to claim 12th, its fast-paced layout proving a thrill ride despite the initial gimmicks.
Fan and driver favourite Suzuka in Japan is a somewhat controversial 9th. While home to legendary corners like 130R and Spoon, the last few dry races there have been surprisingly tedious.
Podium Places: The Undisputed Classics
Breaking into the top three is the Red Bull Ring in Austria. Rescued from obscurity by the energy drink giant, this picturesque mountain circuit constantly challenges drivers with its track limits and provides brilliant racing. In second place is the historic Silverstone Circuit in the UK. The very first F1 track offers everything: variable British weather, massive crowds, high speeds, and iconic corners like Copse and Maggots. It remains a near-perfect venue.
And taking the number one spot is Interlagos in Brazil, officially the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace. It possesses all of Silverstone's qualities but adds dramatic elevation changes, undulating corners, and arguably the most passionate atmosphere in the sport. Many fans agree it, not Abu Dhabi, should host the season finale. For now, it can celebrate being crowned the best circuit on the 2026 Formula 1 calendar.
