Barcelona secures F1 future until 2032 in rotational deal with Spa

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Formula One has tightened its bond with one of its most familiar European homes, confirming that the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will remain on the championship’s calendar through 2032 – albeit on a rotational basis with Belgium’s legendary Circuit de Spa‑Francorchamps.

The agreement ensures Barcelona will host Grands Prix in 2026, 2028, 2030 and 2032, with the event itself rebranded as the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix starting this season.

For a circuit that has become synonymous with pre-season testing, technical benchmarks and sun-soaked grandstands, the extension feels less like a surprise and more like a reaffirmation of status.

A Legacy of Investment and Passion

The extension is a direct result of massive modernization efforts aimed at elevating the fan experience.

Recent upgrades include the debut of the Circuit Rooftop, a luxury hospitality space offering panoramic views of turns 9 through 11, and the large-scale installation of solar panels to enhance the track's sustainability.

This investment honors a track built for the 1992 Olympic Games that has witnessed some of the sport's most iconic moments, such as Max Verstappen’s historic F1 first victory in 2016.

The venue remains a favorite for fans, with over 300,000 spectators attending in 2025 to watch Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris secure a McLaren 1-2 finish. To bridge the gap between the track and the city, the popular fan festival at Plaça de Catalunya is set to return in 2026.

Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1, expressed his enthusiasm for the renewal:

“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,” commented the Italian.

"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.

Read also: Domenicali sees ‘signs of optimism’ for German GP return

"I would like to thank Salvador Illa, President of the Government of Catalunya, Pol Gibert, CEO of Circuits de Catalunya SL and General Secretary of the Department of Business and Employment for their unwavering commitment to hosting Formula 1, and Oriol Sagrera, the former CEO of Circuits de Catalunya SL and former General Secretary of the Department of Business and Employment, who was key to securing the renewal. I can’t wait to see our brilliant fans in Barcelona in June!”

With Spa alternating in the off-years, the calendar gains both continuity and contrast – a balance of Mediterranean flair and Ardennes drama that keeps Formula 1’s European heart beating strong.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.