Argentina makes Formula 1 return case to FIA

Argentina has placed its ambitions for a return to the Formula 1 calendar directly in front of the FIA, using the federation's American Congress in Buenos Aires to make the case.

President Javier Milei and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem opened the meeting, which brings together representatives from 32 automobile clubs from across the Americas between August 31 and September 2.

Formula 1 and the FIA's other World Championships were among the subjects discussed. Milei said Argentina had the history and institutional support required to stage major international events again.

We have absolutely everything, he said, referring to a possible return of Formula 1 and the World Rally Championship. We have tradition, drivers and institutional seriousness.

Argentina last hosted Formula 1 in 1998, at the Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez in Buenos Aires. The race appeared intermittently on the calendar between 1953 and 1998, usually reflecting the country's economic and political circumstances as much as Formula 1's enthusiasm for the market.

The present interest has been helped by Franco Colapinto, whose arrival in Formula 1 restored a national connection to the championship. A popular driver is useful, but a Grand Prix also requires a promoter, a circuit acceptable to the FIA and a long-term financial agreement with Formula One Management.

None of those elements was announced at the congress, so this remains a political declaration rather than confirmation of a race. It is nevertheless a serious opportunity for Argentina to speak to the people who would have to approve the sporting side of any proposal.

The same applies to rallying. Argentina has a long WRC history and last appeared on that calendar in 2019. The appetite is clear; the next task is to turn it into a workable bid.