South Korea Leads the Formula1 Charge, Heading to Spain, Japan, Australia, Canada, Monaco, USA, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain in 2026

Published on February 27, 2026

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Formula 1 (F1) has become more than just a motorsport; it has evolved into a global phenomenon that attracts millions of fans from around the world. The rise in popularity of F1, particularly in South Korea, has seen a sharp increase in travel to iconic race destinations as fans plan their trips to witness the adrenaline-filled action on the track. This year, as the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship draws near, the demand for F1-related travel has reached new heights, especially among South Korean travelers. Thanks to the cultural influence of K-pop and the global appeal of the sport, F1 is fast becoming a must-see experience for South Korea’s growing travel community. With Agoda’s recent survey revealing the top Formula 1 host destinations for South Korean travelers, we take a deep dive into the most popular cities where South Korean fans are planning their travel to in 2026.

A New Era for Formula 1 and South Korean Travelers

In recent years, South Korea has witnessed a remarkable surge in interest towards Formula 1. The excitement reached new levels following the release of the blockbuster film “F1: The Movie”, which captivated a global audience by showcasing the thrilling lives of legendary drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Lando Norris. The movie was not just a hit among motorsport fans, but also introduced a new wave of K-pop fans to the world of F1. BLACKPINK members Lisa and Rosé have contributed significantly to this momentum by attending races and even participating in the movie’s soundtrack, giving Formula 1 an added dimension of cultural appeal. This cultural crossover has led to increased interest among South Korean travelers who are now flocking to top racing destinations.

Shanghai, Barcelona, and Suzuka: Top 3 F1 Hotspots for South Korean Travelers

As South Korean travelers book their trips for upcoming races, Shanghai, Barcelona, and Suzuka emerge as the leading destinations. According to Agoda’s recent travel data, Shanghai, China, is the most sought-after F1 destination among South Korean fans. The proximity of Shanghai to South Korea, combined with the ease of travel, makes it an ideal choice. With Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage and exciting F1 atmosphere, it’s no wonder that it’s at the top of the list.

Following closely behind is Barcelona, Spain. This city, famous for its cultural richness and vibrant atmosphere, has always been a favorite for international visitors. In 2026, Barcelona’s race is set to take place in early June, aligning perfectly with South Korea’s summer vacation trends. The allure of the Spanish Grand Prix, held on the stunning Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, is undeniable, making it an essential destination for F1 lovers.

Suzuka, Japan, rounds out the top three, and its place here is no surprise. Suzuka’s race holds a special place in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts, particularly those from South Korea. Japan’s proximity and the ease of travel make Suzuka an accessible option for many. The famed figure-eight Suzuka circuit has witnessed some of F1’s most iconic moments, and its mystique continues to draw fans year after year.

Other Popular Formula 1 Destinations for South Korean Travelers

While Shanghai, Barcelona, and Suzuka lead the pack, several other cities have also made their mark in South Korean travel plans. Cities like Melbourne, Monaco, Miami, Montreal, Jeddah, and Sakhir are seeing increasing interest. These destinations are attracting South Korean tourists not just for the races, but also for their vibrant local cultures, nightlife, and historical significance.

Melbourne in Australia has long been a prominent F1 destination, and this year, the excitement is palpable as the city hosts the opening race of the 2026 season in March. Melbourne’s cosmopolitan charm, coupled with the thrill of F1 racing, continues to make it a top choice for South Korean fans.

Monaco, the glamorous destination, holds a special place in the world of Formula1. The Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious events in the motorsport world, is renowned for its rich history and its picturesque setting in the Mediterranean. The Monaco Grand Prix’s unique atmosphere, featuring narrow streets and the iconic Fairmont Hairpin, makes it one of the most coveted races to attend.

Meanwhile, Miami, Jeddah, and Sakhir are emerging destinations that have captured the attention of South Korean travelers. Miami saw a surge in interest in 2025, especially after K-pop stars like BLACKPINK attended the Miami Grand Prix, generating a buzz among fans. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s new addition to the F1 calendar, has made waves with its state-of-the-art street circuit and its stunning Red Sea backdrop. Sakhir, Bahrain’s F1 venue, continues to draw fans thanks to its reputation for close racing and its modern facilities.

Impact of Formula 1 on Global Travel and Tourism

The rise in Formula 1’s popularity has had a profound impact on travel and tourism, especially for the host cities. The influx of global travelers, particularly from South Korea, has brought significant economic benefits to destinations that host Formula 1 races. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses experience a boost in revenue, as F1 fans fill the streets, bringing with them a hunger for cultural experiences and adventure.

Cities like Shanghai, Barcelona, and Suzuka not only experience an influx of tourists for the duration of the F1 events but also see a longer-term impact as travelers return for vacations, sightseeing, and cultural exploration. The reputation of these cities as F1 destinations boosts their tourism appeal, attracting international visitors well beyond the race weekend.

In addition to the financial benefits, the exposure that these cities get through global broadcasts of the F1 races contributes to their status as international tourist hotspots. The iconic images of these destinations, as captured in the media, continue to draw fans and travelers long after the races have concluded.

Agoda: Revolutionizing Travel to Formula 1 Destinations

Agoda, a digital travel platform, is playing a pivotal role in making it easier for South Korean travelers to plan their F1 trips. The platform offers a vast selection of flights, accommodations, and activities, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the local culture of each F1 host city. Agoda’s commitment to providing affordable and convenient travel options has contributed significantly to the growth in demand for Formula 1-related travel among South Koreans.

With over 6 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities available on Agoda’s platform, South Korean travelers now have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Whether it’s booking flights to Barcelona, Melbourne, or Monaco, Agoda ensures that travelers have seamless access to all the essential travel services required for an unforgettable F1 experience.

Jay Lee, the Regional Director for North Asia at Agoda, highlighted the role that cultural influencers, such as K-pop stars, have played in the rising interest in Formula 1 in South Korea. He further emphasized that travelers can not only visit these F1 host cities but also explore the rich local culture and experiences that each city offers. Agoda’s platform ensures that every traveler can fully immerse themselves in the destinations they visit, from world-class dining to historical landmarks and unforgettable experiences.

The Future of Formula 1 and Travel: A Growing Global Phenomenon

As we look toward the future of Formula 1, it is clear that the sport’s global reach will only continue to expand. The growing enthusiasm among South Korean travelers is a testament to this, with more fans attending races in diverse international locations than ever before. The influence of K-pop, the appeal of global motorsport, and the excitement of F1 events are all contributing factors to the sport’s rise in popularity, particularly in South Korea.

Formula 1 has not only become a sport for motorsport enthusiasts but has also transcended into a cultural event that appeals to a broader audience. The cross-pollination between the worlds of K-pop, fashion, and motorsport is making F1 more accessible to new fans and travelers across the globe. Cities like Shanghai, Barcelona, Melbourne, and Suzuka will continue to benefit from the global attention that F1 brings, with tourism and travel playing a crucial role in their economic growth.

As Formula1 continues to expand its footprint in new and emerging markets, the future of motorsport tourism looks brighter than ever. With new destinations being added to the F1 calendar each year, and the growing role of travel platforms like Agoda, the world of Formula 1 is poised to take on even greater significance in the global travel and tourism industry.