Formula 1 CEO Domenicali Open to Barcelona Staying on Calendar Amidst Spanish Grand Prix Move to Madrid

Spanish Grand Prix Set to Move to Madrid in 2026, But Barcelona’s F1 Future Not Ruled Out

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has left the door open for the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya to continue hosting Formula 1 races even after the Spanish Grand Prix relocates to Madrid in 2026. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been a staple on the F1 calendar since 1991, with its current contract extending until 2026. Madrid’s new street circuit around the IFEMA convention center is set to debut with a 10-year agreement.

While the official announcement of the Madrid circuit did not mention Barcelona, Domenicali has stated that discussions are ongoing to explore the possibility of both cities hosting F1 races concurrently.

Domenicali explained, “For the avoidance of doubt and to clarify here, the fact we are in Madrid is not excluding the fact we could stay in Barcelona for the future. Looking ahead, there are discussions in place to see if we can really extend our collaboration with Barcelona, with whom we have a very good relationship, for the future.”

Spain has a history of hosting two F1 events simultaneously, notably with Valencia holding the European Grand Prix from 2008 to 2012 alongside the Spanish Grand Prix. Domenicali highlighted the growing popularity of F1 in Spain, citing the presence of Spanish drivers Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz as key contributors.

“Spain was a market that just a couple of years ago was not in the center of our eyes,” he said. “Now it is very important. We signed a new deal with Spanish broadcaster DAZN until at least the end of 2026. It’s a nice problem to have, to have multiple cities – some in the same country – wanting to host a grand prix.”

Domenicali also expressed his enthusiasm for Madrid’s return to F1 after a hiatus since 1981, emphasizing the strong interest European cities have in entering the sport. He praised Madrid’s project and the long-term nature of the deal, aligning with F1’s strategy of securing extended agreements with promoters.

“I’m very pleased that it’s a deal that takes us to 2035 – it’s a long time. This is the objective as F1, with either new or more established promoters. It allows everyone involved to plan the future and invest in the future as it is a guarantee for the promoter, for our partners, for our teams and for our sport. It gives everyone long-term visibility.”

Domenicali also highlighted F1’s commitment to sustainability and expressed confidence in IFEMA MADRID’s shared vision to make the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid one of the most accessible and sustainable events on the F1 calendar.