Jul.23 (GMM) Barcelona has taken a key step in direction of securing its place on the Method 1 calendar past 2026, as Madrid prepares to take over the title of Spanish Grand Prix from subsequent yr.
The Catalan Authorities confirmed on Tuesday that it has formally authorised Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya’s operators to accentuate negotiations with Method One Administration, with financial minister Miquel Samper and circuit boss Josep Lluis Santamaria set to steer the talks.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has repeatedly mentioned two races in Spain are potential, and Barcelona is pushing for a long-term deal below the rebranded title of the Barcelona-Catalunya GP from 2026 onwards.
With Madrid locked in to host the Spanish GP from 2026 to 2035, the Montmelo spherical could be held in June, with each occasions anticipated to coexist on the file 24-race calendar.
“We’ve got been working for a while to make sure that Method 1 continues to be held in Catalonia,” mentioned Catalan president Salvador Illa, who visited the paddock throughout the 2025 Spanish GP.
“It’s an occasion that permits us to showcase the perfect of Catalonia and brings prosperity and wealth to our homeland.”
Barcelona’s case is strengthened by current circuit upgrades totalling greater than 50 million euros, and by the appointment of Fernando Alonso as an official ambassador. The federal government and circuit operator Fira Circuit, which took over day-to-day administration in 2024, are searching for a 10-year extension with FOM.
Samper has mentioned all situations stay on the desk, together with potential rotation with different F1 venues, however the popular consequence is a everlasting renewal. “There isn’t any urgency,” he mentioned earlier. “It’s higher to work quietly, with most discretion, to attain the very best settlement.”
