The Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix will continue to feature in both Barcelona and Madrid through 2032, with the races alternating annually starting in 2026. Madrid will debut as the official Spanish Grand Prix host in September 2026, while Barcelona will retain an F1 event in even-numbered years: 2026, 2028, 2030, and 2032.
Longstanding History of the Barcelona Circuit and Its Upcoming Role
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Montmeló has been a staple on the F1 calendar since 1991, when Nigel Mansell first won at the track. In recent years, the venue has seen victories from notable drivers such as Lewis Hamilton, who won multiple times between 2017 and 2021, Max Verstappen securing wins from 2016 and then from 2022 through 2024, and Oscar Piastri taking the top spot in 2025.
Although the official Spanish Grand Prix name will shift to Madrid starting 2026, Barcelona’s contract with Formula One Management and the local council has been extended, allowing it to host alternating-year races under the title GP de Barcelona-Catalunya. The 2026 race is scheduled for June 12-14.
Alternating Calendar with Belgium and Expanding Race Locations
The Barcelona GP will alternate with Belgium’s Spa-Francorchamps circuit, which will host races in the odd-numbered years of 2027, 2029, and 2031. Barcelona’s event will fill the even years in between. Meanwhile, Madrid will serve as the home for the Spanish Grand Prix annually from 2026 through 2035.
Additional changes to the Formula 1 calendar include the Portimão circuit in Portugal returning for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, replacing the Dutch Grand Prix, which will conclude in 2026 after its recent appearances during the 2020 and 2021 COVID-19 adjusted seasons.
Implications for the Future of Spanish Formula 1 Races
This new arrangement ensures that both Barcelona and Madrid maintain a presence in Formula 1, preserving Barcelona’s historical significance while introducing Madrid as the new flagship venue for the Spanish Grand Prix. Alternating the Barcelona races with Belgium also reflects a broader trend of flexible scheduling in F1’s evolving global calendar, balancing tradition with new markets.
With Madrid committed to hosting consecutive Spanish Grand Prix events and Barcelona securing a contract through 2032 for alternate years, fans and teams will benefit from a consistent Spanish presence in the championship for the foreseeable future.
