Renault F1 team boss Cyril Abiteboul believes that a reduced number of races will massively increase the value of Formula 1 and help stop the series from becoming diluted.

This year's calendar features 21 races, making it the longest season equal with 2016, with this season featuring a triple-header of races starting in France, before moving to Austria and then finally Great Britain.

Liberty Media have often spoken about a 25-race calendar, with more races in the US such as the proposed Miami circuit and potential returns to former circuits such as Istanbul and even Imola.

But, many feel that is too much and detracts from the value of F1, including Abiteboul.

He has said, as per PlanetF1: “We need to be able to engage with fans but is has to remain something special. We are already way above what should be the figure for something special.

“We need to convey a message of pride, of motivation, of energy. With the calendar that we have now, the enthusiasm is not the same as when we were only traveling 15 times per year.

“I appreciate the reason why, commercially we need to grow the calendar, but as far as I’m concerned, I would be for a massive contraction of the sport.”

There is not only the commercial side to consider, but also the team side.

Next year's calendar is set to end on December 1, a hugely unpopular move and one that will affect the team's mechanics massively.

It will then only be a couple of months before the next car launches and testing programs for the following season.

Liberty Media have done some great things for the sport so far. An increase in social media presence, better fan engagement at circuits and fantastic content, including F1 TV.

But, a 25-race calendar may just be one step too far this time.

We all want lots of racing action a year, but there comes a point when you do have to say 'stop' now and again.