Barcelona will continue to host a Formula One Grand Prix until 2032, but the event will alternate annually with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, Formula 1 announced Monday.
The agreement secures the future of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya as a race venue despite the introduction of a new Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid, scheduled to debut in September 2026. While Madrid will host a permanent race on a new street circuit, Barcelona will retain its place on the calendar in 2028, 2030, and 2032, operating under the name Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix.
The rotation agreement means Spa-Francorchamps will host races in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031. The deal effectively ends, for the time being, Spa’s attempts to negotiate a full-time contract, according to reports.
“Barcelona is an incredible city, and the Formula One fans there always welcome us with such passion,” said Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali in a statement. “I am delighted that we will continue to race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for years to come.” Domenicali likewise highlighted the circuit’s recent investments and its ability to host “fantastic fan festivals.”
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, originally constructed in 1991 as part of the preparations for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, has undergone recent modernization efforts. These include the construction of the Circuit Rooftop, a hospitality space overlooking key turns, and the installation of solar panels throughout the facility. The circuit generates approximately 300 million euros (£261m) for the region each time it hosts a Grand Prix.
The track holds historical significance within Formula 1, having hosted Max Verstappen’s first F1 victory in 2016. In 2025, the race weekend attracted over 300,000 attendees.
The agreement follows a period of uncertainty surrounding Barcelona’s future on the F1 calendar, prompted by the addition of the Madrid race. The Catalan government and the city of Barcelona have invested in the circuit to ensure its continued presence on the Formula 1 schedule.
