Spanish Grand Prix Future: Madrid Confirmed from 2026, Barcelona's Fate Uncertain

Formula 1 is set for a significant shift in Spain, with the Grand Prix confirmed to move from its long-standing home in Barcelona to a new street circuit in Madrid starting in 2026. The Spanish capital has secured a deal to host the event until 2035, marking its return to the F1 calendar for the first time since 1981. The new venue in Madrid, dubbed the 'Madring', is planned as a 5.4-kilometre, 22-turn layout. Race organisers have outlined plans for a 57-lap event in 2026 and recently presented a digital preview of the circuit, highlighting features like a lengthy main straight and potential overtaking zones into the opening corners. Born in Madrid, Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz has become an ambassador for the new race and has expressed strong enthusiasm, believing the event will be a success for his hometown. Despite Madrid's impending arrival, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya currently holds a contract to host the Spanish Grand Prix in 2025. However, given the packed global schedule and high demand for F1 races, it is widely considered unlikely that Spain will host two separate Grands Prix in the same year once Madrid joins. The move to Madrid is reportedly driven by F1's push for greater investment in infrastructure and traffic management, areas where the Barcelona venue allegedly fell short. Barcelona has been a fixture on the F F1 calendar since 1991 and holds immense historical significance for teams, serving as a primary winter testing location for decades due to its varied corner profiles. The circuit has also undergone significant facility upgrades in recent years. This deep connection has led several prominent drivers to voice their hope for Barcelona to retain a place on the calendar. Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, a local hero who has won twice in Barcelona, remains optimistic that the circuit will not be lost entirely. He advocates for preserving traditional venues alongside the introduction of new locations, arguing that Barcelona's history and role as a preferred test track make it fundamental to F1. Reigning champion Max Verstappen, who secured his maiden F1 win in Barcelona in 2016, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that losing the track would be a considerable loss for both drivers and fans. While the future beyond 2025 for the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya remains officially unconfirmed, the sentiment among some key figures highlights a desire to see the historic venue continue its legacy in Formula 1, even as the Spanish Grand Prix prepares for its new era in Madrid.