2018 Formula 1 Calendar Breaks Cover

Get ready for many more nights on the couch, Formula 1 is going super sized.

21 races are on the provisional calendar released by the FIA for 2018, equalling the 2016 record for the most number of races in a year.

Germany and France are welcomed back to the sport, the latter returning after more than a decade's absence.

That race will be hosted at the Paul Ricard circuit, which last had an F1 race way back in 1990.

Management admit every man and his dog want to host a race.

We received numerous requests from those wishing to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix," said CEO Chase Carey.

"But we wanted the existing promoters to feel that we are putting all our efforts into ensuring that each race is a special event, so that the fans, our most important stakeholders, can enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience."

"If we can do that, then the entire Formula 1 family will reap the benefit.”

Daniel Ricciardo tries out the new and improved Paul Ricard circuit

As usual, the season will get underway with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 25, ending exactly 8 months later in Abu Dhabi in November.

In a first for the series, races will run on three consecutive weekends with the French Grand Prix on June 24, the Austrian GP on July 1 and the British race on July 8.

There'll also be five grands prix in six weekends through June and July.

Malaysia's the only country that drops out from 2017.

While 21 is a record number for Formula 1, the sport's new owners Liberty Media are believed to be pushing to expand the Championship to 25 races.

New York and Las Vegas are all being flagged as possible destinations in future.

Whatever the case, the Formula 1 show will continue racking up the frequent flyers.

March 25, Melbourne, Australia
April 8, Shanghai, China
April 15, Sakhir, Bahrain
April 29, Baku, Azerbaijan
May 13, Barcelona, Spain
May 27, Monaco
June 10, Montreal, Canada
June 24, Le Castellet, France
July 1, Spielberg, Austria
July 8, Silverstone, England
July 22, Hockenheim, Germany
July 29, Budapest, Hungary
Aug. 26, Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium
Sept. 2, Monza, Italy
Sept. 16, Singapore
Sept. 30, Sochi, Russia
Oct. 7, Suzuka, Japan
Oct. 21, Austin, United States
Oct. 28, Mexico City
Nov. 11, Sao Paulo
Nov. 25, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates