The Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix has been a tradition in Barcelona for the past 33 years. With the latest contract renewal, Montmeló secures the show until 2026.
However, after that date, the future of Formula 1 in the Catalan city faces a challenge: competition from the Community of Madrid, which seeks to design a street circuit around Ifema.
The Community of Madrid, led by its president Isabel Díaz Ayuso, has shown its determination to host a Formula 1 race from 2026.
Although he assures that this will not be a detriment to Barcelona, the reality is that Formula 1 organizers generally avoid having two championship races in a single country.
The future of F1 in Barcelona: Will Montmeló continue as a venue?
The fight to retain Formula 1 at Montmeló will be crucial for Barcelona. Although the award has been the subject of debate in recent years, especially during the term of former mayor Ada Colau, the event has been an important milestone for the city.
Although the City Council does not own the Montmeló Circuit, it has provided financial support in the past.
One of the main factors that will determine the future of Formula 1 in Barcelona is the economic aspect. Currently, Montmeló pays a fee of 22 million euros to Formula 1.
However, this amount is expected to increase considerably due to the growing interest of cities around the world in hosting the prestigious event.
Formula 1’s ownership group, Liberty Media, receives the royalty. Faced with the possibility of a higher fee, the administrations that control the Montmeló Circuit, such as the Generalitat de Catalunya and the Reial Automòbil Club de Catalunya (Racc), will have to react and make important decisions.
A “classic” circuit at the Spanish Grand Prix
Roger Torrent, Minister of Enterprise of the Generalitat, has expressed a certain calmness due to the 33 years of success of the Circuit de Montmeló, which has consolidated its position as a “classic” circuit appreciated by drivers.
However, what happens after 2026 will depend largely on the economic capacity of the circuit and negotiations with Formula 1.
In this context, Madrid is ready to compete for the Formula 1 prize. With an absolute majority in the Community and the Madrid City Council government under the Popular Party, the city is a serious candidate to host the event after 2026.
Formula 1 has been a key element in Barcelona’s international projection. Together with the Mobile World Congress, both events have consolidated the city as a benchmark of world leadership.
Likewise, the America’s Cup 2024 also emerges as a relevant event in Barcelona’s calendar.
