F1 | Barcelona-Catalunya GP secures multi-year extension as rotation continues
Formula 1 has confirmed the renewal of a key Grand Prix that will remain part of the calendar rotation, a system necessary due to the growing number of requests to join the F1 circus. Just weeks before the start of the 2026 season, the sport announced this important renewal, which will see the event integrated into the ongoing rotation of venues managed by Stefano Domenicali.
A major renewal for the future of Formula 1
The announcement concerns a multi-year extension with the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, which will host the Grand Prix in 2028, 2030, and 2032, in addition to the previously scheduled 2026 edition. Starting this year, the event will officially be known as the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, further strengthening the connection between the race and the region.
This extension comes after significant investments in the circuit, originally built in 1991 as part of the 1992 Olympic development program. Key updates include the new Circuit Rooftop, an upgraded hospitality area overlooking turns 9, 10, and 11 and the main straight entrance, as well as the installation of solar panels across various areas of the track. The Catalan circuit, renowned for its combination of high-speed and slow corners, has hosted iconic moments, such as Max Verstappen‘s first career victory in 2016.
In 2025, the event drew 300,000 spectators over the race weekend, highlighted by Oscar Piastri‘s win ahead of teammate Lando Norris. Other current drivers who have triumphed at Barcelona include Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso. In recent years, organizers have also promoted a fan festival in the central Plaça de Catalunya, an initiative set to return in 2026.
The Barcelona races will alternate with those at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, scheduled in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031.
“Barcelona is an incredible city, and fans always welcome us with great passion,” said Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1. “We can’t wait to return in June and continue enhancing the experience for the public.” Pol Gibert added: “This renewal solidifies Catalonia as a key stop on the international calendar, generating an economic impact exceeding 300 million euros per edition.”
The decision to rotate the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix with Spa-Francorchamps signals a new era for Formula 1’s global strategy, balancing heritage European venues with the sport’s massive commercial expansion. By securing a deal through 2032, Barcelona remains a technical benchmark for the teams while providing the stability needed for long-term infrastructure investments like the new Circuit Rooftop. As Stefano Domenicali navigates an ever-growing list of interested host cities, this rotation model appears to be the primary solution for preserving the sport’s history without closing the door on new, lucrative markets in the 2026 era and beyond.
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