Barcelona is actively targeting an F1 return in 2027, with the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya exploring opportunities created by continuing uncertainty surrounding Formula 1’s Middle Eastern events. The Catalan venue has also emerged as the leading alternative to Bahrain for the championship’s four-day pre-season test.
After Madrid secured the Spanish Grand Prix and Barcelona was left out of the 2027 schedule through its rotation with Spa-Francorchamps, the circuit’s management has not abandoned its ambition to host major Formula 1 events. Officials have recently intensified discussions with the FIA and Formula 1’s senior management, focusing particularly on the possibility of staging the 2027 winter test.
Barcelona targets 2027 F1 return amid calendar uncertainty
The geopolitical situation in the Middle East has created uncertainty around several planned events. Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi could be unable to host races or testing if the tensions continue, leading Formula 1 president and chief executive Stefano Domenicali to prepare a Plan B centred on European venues considered safer alternatives.
However, organising races in Europe during April or in late November and early December would present another challenge. Weather conditions at that time of year are often far from ideal, complicating Formula 1’s efforts to reshape the provisional 2027 F1 calendar.
One scenario currently being discussed would see the 2027 season begin in China, followed by Australia after renovation work has been completed and then Japan. A Grand Prix at either Barcelona or Imola could then be added to the schedule.
The other European venue could potentially receive a May date between Montreal and Monaco, replacing the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix. Formula 1 remains optimistic that the conflict will not continue for another 14 months, particularly regarding the final two scheduled races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. For that reason, Stefano Domenicali does not currently consider the end of the 2027 season to be the most urgent concern.
The championship’s leadership is expected to continue evaluating these alternatives before confirming its plans, with further clarity anticipated when Formula 1 reveals its official 2027 schedule.
Barcelona prioritises 2027 F1 pre-season testing
The more immediate issue concerns the 2027 winter test. Safety concerns surrounding Bahrain are increasing and, unless the situation improves significantly over the coming weeks, the Sakhir circuit could lose not only the opening race but also pre-season testing.
Barcelona has positioned itself as the natural replacement. The Catalan circuit is already prepared to host a single four-day test at the end of February and has extensive experience of running Formula 1’s winter programme.
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya hosted pre-season testing for many years before Bahrain attracted the event by offering more favourable financial conditions. Its varied layout, established facilities and familiarity among the teams would make it a practical alternative should Formula 1 need to move the session back to Europe.
Circuit general manager Josep Lluís Santamaría and his team have held numerous meetings with Formula 1 executives in an attempt to secure the event. At present, Barcelona appears to be the near-certain choice for the 2027 test if Bahrain is unable to organise it.
A Barcelona Grand Prix return remains possible
Barcelona is also refusing to abandon its ambition of returning to the race calendar. Its rotation with Spa-Francorchamps means the Catalan circuit is not currently scheduled to host a Grand Prix in 2027, but the potential need to replace Middle Eastern events could reopen the door.
The venue is already contracted to stage Formula 1 races in alternating seasons, while Madrid has assumed the role of hosting the Spanish Grand Prix. Barcelona therefore remains part of Formula 1’s longer-term plans despite its planned absence in 2027.
As Formula 1 searches for stable and secure alternatives, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya presents a pragmatic and proven solution. It can provide high-level infrastructure, extensive organisational experience and a loyal audience without requiring the championship to prepare an entirely new venue at short notice.
Whether Barcelona secures only the pre-season test or also gains an unexpected Grand Prix will ultimately depend on developments in the Middle East and the contingency plans being developed by Formula 1. For now, the Catalan circuit is making sure it is ready should an opportunity emerge.
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