F1 bosses have confirmed that the scrapped Russian Grand Prix will not be replaced in 2022.
The race in Sochi, originally scheduled for September, was cancelled back in February as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Just days later, the FIA then tore up it's long-term contract with race organisers.
Initially, it appeared that the race in Sochi would be replaced with the F1 governing body openly saying they were exploring other venue options. But fearing a logistical nightmare in an already hectic season, now it's been confirmed that they will abolish plans for a record breaking 23-race campaign.
The Russian event was added to the F1 calendar back in 2014 after former chief executive Bernie Ecclestone struck a deal with Vladimir Putin. Last June, it was confirmed the race would move from Sochi to St Petersburg from 2023.
A released F1 statement read: "The 2022 Formula One calendar will now run to 22 races rather than the originally planned 23, following the decision not to replace the Russian Grand Prix. It's now been revealed that there will be no additional Grand Prix added to the calendar to fill the gap - meaning the 2022 calendar will run to 22 races."
The news is likely to be met with relief in many quarters of F1. Team bosses this year, most notably Christian Horner, have already expressed resentment that a reduced budget cap is coinciding with increased travel costs.
F1 is one of numerous sporting organisations to impose sanctions on Russia and Belarus following the invasion, with the UEFA Champions League final promptly being switched from Moscow to Paris. The All England Tennis Club has also barred players from both nations from competing at SW19 this year.
F1 bosses did permit drivers from either country to compete under a neutral banner. However, Nikita Mazepin was axed by Haas, in light of his family ties to Putin.
After making its original call to cancel Sochi, the FIA said: "We are watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation.
"Formula 1, the FIA, and the teams discussed the position of our sport, and the conclusion is, including the view of all relevant stakeholders, that it is impossible to hold the Russian Grand Prix in the current circumstances."
In 2021, a then record 22 events took place, with this new era of F1 now five races old. The campaign resumes in Barcelona this weekend with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc leading Red Bull's Max Verstappen by 19 points in the standings.
The Russian Grand Prix had been set for September 25, meaning drivers will now enjoy a three-week break between Italy and Singapore. The season again culminates in Abu Dhabi on November 20.
