Formula 1 has agreed to a new deal with the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, securing races there in 2028, 2030, and 2032 while alternating with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. The Barcelona track will also feature on the 2026 calendar as the renamed Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, following the Spanish Grand Prix's move to Madrid. This extension comes after significant investments in the circuit's facilities.
The agreement ensures the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya remains a fixture on the Formula 1 calendar beyond its current contract, which ends in 2026. Built in 1991 as part of preparations for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, the track has hosted the Spanish Grand Prix annually since then. However, from 2026, that title shifts to a new semi-permanent circuit near Madrid, known as Madring, debuting in September of this year.
Under the new terms, Barcelona will host events in 2028, 2030, and 2032, sharing a calendar slot with Spa-Francorchamps, which is scheduled for 2027, 2029, and 2031. This rotation reflects Formula 1's strategy to balance longstanding European races with emerging markets, amid limited government funding for some venues. For instance, the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort will conclude after 2026, with Portugal's Algarve International Circuit returning in 2027 and 2028 to fill the gap.
Recent upgrades at Barcelona include the Circuit Rooftop hospitality area overlooking key turns and the installation of solar panels across the facility. Organizers have also hosted fan festivals, such as one planned for Placa de Catalunya ahead of the 2026 race weekend. The events generate an economic impact exceeding €300 million per edition and attract over 300,000 spectators.
"This renewal is the result of a strong relationship and close collaboration and represents a very important step in further consolidating Catalonia as a key fixture on the international calendar," said Pol Gibert, CEO of Circuits de Catalunya SL. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali added, "Barcelona is an incredible city, and the Formula 1 fans there always welcome us with such passion, so I am delighted that we will continue to race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for years to come. The team have invested heavily in the circuit and hosted fantastic fan festivals in recent years, so we look forward to seeing how they continue to develop the experience, both for attendees at the race and for the city as a whole."
The rotation leaves room on the 24-race calendar for potential new additions, such as discussions with Thailand and Rwanda, though no deals are confirmed.
