Formula 1 has officially announced a strategic "rotational" contract for the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, marking a significant shift in its future race calendar. This move comes as part of the sport's broader expansion efforts, with more countries than ever expressing interest in hosting Grand Prix events.
Rotational System Details
Under the new six-year agreement, the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix will take place in alternating years with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. Specifically, Barcelona is scheduled to host races in 2028, 2030, and 2032, while Spa will feature in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031. This rotational approach aims to balance traditional European venues with emerging global destinations.
Barcelona's Future Secured
Despite initial uncertainty due to the introduction of an annual street race in Madrid starting this September, Barcelona's position has been solidified. Major renovations at the circuit, including a new hospitality space above the third sector and the installation of solar panels, have enhanced the fan experience. Additionally, the circuit recently hosted a five-day "shakedown" test, maintaining its role as a key European testing venue.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the city, stating: "Barcelona is an incredible city, and the Formula 1 fans there always welcome us with such passion, so I am delighted that we will continue to race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for years to come." He highlighted investments in fan festivals and overall experience improvements.
Global Calendar Implications
With Portugal added to the 2027 calendar in a two-year deal, Formula 1 now has contracts for 24 races next year, a limit Domenicali insists will not be exceeded. This development ends speculation about a 2027 race in South Africa, with other interested parties including Rwanda, Morocco, South Korea, Turkey, Thailand, and Argentina. The 2026 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8, following final pre-season testing in Bahrain this week.
The rotational model reflects F1's strategy to accommodate growing demand while preserving historic circuits, ensuring a diverse and sustainable future for the sport.
