The Spanish Grand Prix has been hosted by Barcelona for the last 32 years! Over this period, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has not only served as a mainstay in the Formula 1 calendar but also as a favored testing ground due to its iconic layout, which features a mix of high-speed straights and challenging corners. The track has seen numerous memorable races and has been crucial in the development and testing phases for several teams.
However, changes might be on the horizon for the Spanish Grand Prix. From 2026, we may no longer see this legendary track on the calendar. Speculations suggest that there could be a shift in venue, driven by factors such as financial instability, logistical challenges, and the need for a more technologically advanced circuit. This potential move could signify the end of an era for the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya- raising questions about the future of one of Formula 1’s most beloved circuits.
Which track will replace Circuit Barcelona as the Spanish GP
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is a 4.657 km motorsport race track known for its mix of fast and slow corners, long straights, and elevation changes. The track has hosted several high-profile events, including the Spanish Grand Prix, MotoGP, and Formula One testing sessions. With a capacity of 140,700 spectators, it is considered an all-rounder circuit, featuring a variety of corners and long straights that allow for both high and low-speed racing.
Despite its popularity, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has faced several criticisms! One major issue is the lack of overtaking opportunities due to the high-speed corners and the long straights- leading to criticism that the track is too familiar for Formula One drivers and mechanics. This reduces the amount of on-track action.
Additionally, the track has undergone several modifications over the years, including the addition of chicanes, which have been criticized for failing to improve overtaking and causing congestion during qualifying sessions.
You gotta do something about the last chicane then…
PLEASE
— Matt Gallagher (@MattP1Gallagher) November 26, 2021
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will be replaced by a new 5.47km circuit in Madrid, encircling the Ifema exhibition center. This new circuit will feature a mix of street and purpose-built sections, incorporating 20 corners, and will initially accommodate 110,000 spectators with plans for expansion to 140,000 attendees. The move is part of Formula One’s commitment to sustainability, with 90% of fans expected to use public transport to reach the event.
Is Barcelona leaving F1 in 2026?
The Spanish Grand Prix will be moving from the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya to a new circuit in Madrid starting in 2026. However, this does not necessarily mean Barcelona is leaving Formula 1 entirely.
While the Circuit’s contract expires in 2026, F1 is in active negotiations with the organizers in Barcelona to potentially extend their collaboration and have the city continue hosting a race, even if it is not the official Spanish Grand Prix. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has stated that the move to Madrid does not exclude the possibility of Barcelona remaining on the calendar, as Spain’s growing popularity in the sport could support two races in the country.
Discussions are ongoing, and the future of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya beyond 2026 remains uncertain, but it is not a foregone conclusion that the legendary track will disappear from the F1 schedule.
Sara Chavan