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The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has secured its Formula 1 future despite considerable uncertainty surrounding the pinnacle of motorsport's European calendar. Following weeks of negotiations, Formula 1 confirmed that Barcelona will remain on the world championship schedule through 2032 as part of a rotational agreement with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps.
The agreement arrives at a critical juncture for the historic venue. Barcelona was entering the final year of its previous contract—a partnership that stretched back to the circuit's inauguration in 1991. More pressingly, the introduction of a new Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid for 2026 raised serious questions about the Montmelò circuit's viability on F1's increasingly crowded calendar.
Under the new deal, Barcelona will host Formula 1 in 2028, 2030, and 2032, alternating with Spa-Francorchamps, which will welcome the championship in 2027, 2029, and 2031. This arrangement reflects modern F1's challenge of balancing heritage venues with newer commercial opportunities across Europe.
The rotation means Formula 1 will feature two Spanish rounds in alternate years—the permanent Madrid race (scheduled through 2035) and Barcelona's Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix. The circuit's loss of the Spanish Grand Prix title represents a symbolic shift, though the rebrand underscores Catalonia's broader identity as a motorsport destination.
Barcelona's retention hinges partly on significant infrastructure investments. Formula 1 cited the construction of a rooftop structure, expanded hospitality facilities, and the installation of solar panels throughout the circuit as decisive factors in extending the partnership. These upgrades reflect the circuit's commitment to modernization—a prerequisite for competing with newer venues vying for European calendar slots.
The economic argument proved equally compelling. The annual Formula 1 event generates over €300 million in economic impact for Catalonia, making it a strategic asset beyond motorsport alone.
While Barcelona celebrates, the rotation effectively concludes Spa's pursuit of a permanent return to the calendar. Belgian promoters have actively campaigned for a full-time slot, but the new arrangement solidifies the rotation through at least 2032.
Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali emphasized the significance, stating: "Barcelona is an incredible city, and the Formula 1 fans there always welcome us with such passion."
With Barcelona's status secured and Madrid establishing itself as a permanent fixture, the 2026 season marks a transformative moment for Spanish motorsport—balancing legacy with evolution.
He’s a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.