Formula 1 calendar for 2017 consists of 21 races

F1 looks set to embark on a second consecutive 21-race voyage around the world in 2017. Germany's Auto Motor und Sport claims next year's schedule will match the current, record-setting number of races, with the first of 21 grands prix taking place on March 26 in Melbourne.

The report said that while rumours of races in Las Vegas, South Africa, France, Imola and others are flying about, there will be in fact be no new events in 2017. "The first one will be 26 March," one team boss confirmed. "And a week later we'll be in Shanghai."

Other than that, the calendar will look very similar to this year's, with even Hockenheim expected to host a consecutive race and therefore safeguard the future of the German GP for now. It has been claimed Ecclestone is even stepping in as a semi-promoter of the German round, as other hosts also struggle to pay race fees in excess of $20 million.

Monza, Russia, Brazil, Silverstone, Montreal and even the highly-popular night race in Singapore are said to also be struggling with their current fees. Auto Motor und Sport said the FIA's World Motor Sport Council is expected to publish the draft 2017 calendar after its next meeting in Paris late next month. The dates for pre-season testing are reportedly not yet set. (GMM)