The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya presented on Monday the 35th edition of the Spanish Grand Prix of Formula 1, which will take place from May 30 to June 1. A celebratory event in every respect, but also marked by some uncertainty: the contract with Formula 1 expires in 2026 and, although talks are ongoing, the authorities avoided making any clear statements regarding a possible renewal.
“This year is crucial to show that Barcelona and Catalonia must remain an integral part of Formula 1,” said Pau Relat, president of Fira de Barcelona and Fira Circuit, the body that has managed the Montmeló track for the past six months.
Relat emphasized that coordinated work is being done with all institutions and confirmed that “conversations with F1 are ongoing,” without providing further details: “We can’t reveal anything in advance, but the goal is clear: we want to continue.”
For his part, the Minister for Business and president of the Circuit, Miquel Samper, stressed that Catalonia “has a history, a great passion, and a circuit highly appreciated by drivers and teams,” but refrained from offering concrete updates. “The current contract expires in 2026, and starting next year, the official name of the Grand Prix will be Madrid. From that point on, we will continue working to ensure that Formula 1 keeps coming to Barcelona, even if under a different name.”
During the event, a programme of initiatives was also unveiled to bring Formula 1 closer to the city. From May 15 to 25, the Moll de la Fusta will host a large, free Fan Village with simulators, shows, a food area, immersive experiences, and concerts. In addition, the Palau Robert will set up an exhibition celebrating 50 years since the last Grand Prix held at Montjuïc, and several activities will be organized in the city to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Formula 1 and the 110th anniversary of the first Spanish Grand Prix.
“We want it to be a great Formula 1 celebration and, at the same time, a showcase to display our capabilities as an innovative, industrial, and talent-rich region,” said Jordi Valls, deputy mayor of the Barcelona City Council. “Barcelona has a long tradition in motorsport, and our goal is not only to retain the Grand Prix but to enhance everything it represents for the city.”
Relat also defended the new management model of the Circuit, now under the direction of Fira de Barcelona, noting that in just five months, important agreements have been reached, such as the renewal with MotoGP. “It’s a silent but very intense job, and we hope it can serve as the foundation to continue with Formula 1 as well,” he said.
To date, there is still no official confirmation about the future of the Montmeló Grand Prix beyond 2026, but the Generalitat, the Barcelona Circuit, and the City Council have all reiterated their commitment, emphasizing how this year’s edition could be a decisive turning point to secure its future. The challenge is now on the table.
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