Formula 1 racing will continue at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, but under a significantly altered arrangement.

The iconic Montmeló track has secured its future in a new six-year deal, however, it will now host the Grand Prix only every other year, alternating with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps.

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This compromise, first reported by La Vanguardia, marks a major shift for a venue that has held an annual race since 1991.

The agreement, pending final signature in the coming weeks, runs until 2032. Consequently, the circuit will host races in 2028, 2030, and 2032. This represents a strategic retreat for Catalan motorsport, which once viewed its annual F1 race as an immovable fixture. Sources close to the circuit admit the outcome is not what was initially desired, but stress it is preferable to losing the event entirely.

Formula 1 Deal Follows Intense European Competition

The biennial arrangement results from fierce competition for a limited number of European slots on the F1 calendar. Liberty Media, the sport’s commercial rights holder, aims for a maximum of eight European races per season and generally avoids two events in the same country. The entry of Madrid onto the calendar from 2026 placed immense pressure on the Barcelona race’s traditional annual slot.

Internal sources acknowledge a “real risk” of being dropped completely. Furthermore, they suggest the situation might have been different had there been a more unified and decisive commitment to the event over the past decade. Meanwhile, Madrid’s concerted push created a powerful rival for the coveted Spanish spot.

This development is the latest setback for top-tier motorsport in Catalonia. In 2023, the Catalunya Costa Daurada rally, organised by the RACC, lost its World Championship status. Spain’s WRC round was subsequently awarded to the Canary Islands for 2025 and 2026. Additionally, the future of the MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix at the circuit was in serious doubt before a separate agreement secured its place until 2031.

The circuit’s significant recent investments in safety and facility upgrades, made to meet stringent F1 standards, will now see a reduced return. The future beyond 2032 remains uncertain, with circuit officials admitting the competition is “ferocious.” The long-term presence of Formula 1 in Catalonia may now also depend on the commercial success of the new Madrid race starting in 2026.

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