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Formula One Racing is officially an international sport. The country where Formula One racing now has a home has increased over the years. This sport that began a hobby for the ‘privileged’ few has reached mass appeal. Formula One racing is no longer an international sport dominated by Europeans in Italy. Teams from the United States and the UK are making names for themselves in international Formula One championship races.

To demonstrate the popularity that Formula One racing has, one need only look at the interest in the World Championships. Over 200 million people worldwide will watch this event on television or view it in person. The popularity of Formula One racing is only rivaled by the love of soccer as a sport.

Although Europe remains the historical center as well for Formula One, Grand Prix’s are being held in many countries throughout the world. In the United States, the most noteworthy Grand Prix is held in Indiana; the United States Grand Prix. Other countries hosting grand prix’s that are new to Formula One racing are Australia, Spain, Monaco and France, as well as many others.

For some countries, however, the high cost of constructing a track and hosting the fans of a grand prix can prove to be too much. Formula One racing has rightly gained the reputation of a rich man’s sport, and therefore it’s understandable that newly modernizing countries would have hesitations.

The World Driver Championships, which is an award given at the World Championship for best driver, might be a reason many different countries are getting into the fray with other Formula One racing countries. National pride, similar to that seen in the Olympics, could be fueling the interest.

Apparently, many countries outside of Europe are looking to host future Formula One racing championships. Some places where these Formula One racing events might occur include India. The places where Formula One racing won’t be taking hold seem to be lessening by the day.

Many countries, swept up by the spirit of the game, have recruited drivers from other countries to represent their own. It seems that lately where Formula One racing is might be the last place conventional fans would think of it being. South African Grand Prix’s, as well as races in Singapore, Malaysia, Turkey and even Japan currently have built elaborate speedway in their own countries.

Europe still holds the stronghold as far as races are concerned. The majority will be held in Europe. Nine of the 17 races to be held in the world in 2007 will be outside of Europe.

As the world continues to become more globally and technologically connected, so to will the world of Formula One racing. In America, there have been barriers to Formula One becoming a more recognized sport, most notably the access of it by television. Despite the barriers, of language and cultural differences, the appeal of Formula One racing will transcend any limitations. Where Formula One racing is, fans from across the globe will surely follow.

The races locations and dates can be found on the Formula One Website