![Franco Colpinto [front] avoided Liam Lawson [back] at the start of the Australian GP](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Franco-Colapinto-F1-Aus-GP-120x86.webp)
Argentina may bid to return to the Formula 1 calendar after awarding a contract to Populous, the devlopers behind the Silverstone Arena and Wing, to develop a new FIA Grade 1 circuit.
The planned 5.5km circuit is to be constructed in Zarate, in very close proximity to the country’s capital, Buenos Aires.
It will be capable of hosting both F1 and MotoGP as the track will meet the FIA’s top standard, Grade 1. It is expected to take two years from conception to completion.
It is understood that the main aim is to promote motorsport and to train young drivers, but the longer-term plans include a bid to join the F1 calendar as well as hosting local racing, such as the Argentinian Touring Car Championship, TC2000.
A concept video can be found below, but this doesn’t reflect the final plans.
![Franco Colpinto [front] avoided Liam Lawson [back] at the start of the Australian GP](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Franco-Colapinto-F1-Aus-GP-350x250.webp)
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