Barcelona locks in its future: F1 secures rotational deal with Spa as Catalan classic stays on the calendar
Formula One (F1) has secured the long term future of the Circuit de Barcelona through 2032 by moving to a “rotational” hosting agreement with the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. There was deep uncertainty about Barcelona’s future after F1 signed a 10 year deal with Madrid to host the Spanish Grand Prix starting in 2026. This rotational deal prevents a “civil war” between the two Spanish regions while ensuring F1 retains one of its most technically significant tracks. Spa-Francorchamps is arguably the most beloved track by drivers and fans but it has struggled with the massive hosting fees required by modern F1. Moving to a biannual rotation allows Spa to remain financially viable in addition to staying on the calendar without the crushing pressure of hosting an annual race against newer, wealthier venues in the Middle East and US.
The legendary Spa has faced chronic financial pressure due to rising hosting fees (now estimated €30-€35 million per year) £26.2 - £30.5 million and the need for expensive safety upgrades (such as the €80m renovation to Eau Rouge/Raidillon section). In January 2025, Spa became the first track to officially sign onto the rotational model. This allows the circuit to remain on the calendar every other year, effectively cutting its hosting costs in addition to logistical strain in half while keeping its prestige intact.
Stefano Domenicali, F1 CEO emphasised that Barcelona’s survival was contingent on its willingness to modernise both the track and the “fan experience.” “The team have heavily in the circuit and hosted fantastic fan festivals in recent years, so we look forward to seeing how they continue to develop the experience.” Domenicali’s quote about “investing heavily” is a subtle warning to other European tracks like Monza and Italy. It confirms that “passion” alone isn’t enough to stay one the calendar: historic tracks must match the hospitality in addition to infrastructure of newer venues like Miami or Las Vegas to survive.
Pol Gilbert, CEO of Circuits de Catalunya focused on the high stakes for the local government and the massive economic engine that the Grand Prix represents for the region. “This renewal is the result of a strong relationship and close connection, represents a very important step in further consolidating Catalonia as a key fixture on the international calendar.” Gilbert’s quote highlighting Catalonia’s “strategic event” status is a direct nod to the geopolitical tension with Madrid. By securing a deal through 2032, Catalonia is signalling that it will not be overshadowed by the new capital city race.
While rotation secures the track’s future, the “habitual” fan base. In 2026, 2028, 2030 and 2032, Spain will host two Grands Prix. This could lead to ticket cannibalisation between the two events. Barcelona is countering this by turning the track into a “year round culture hub.” The continued use of the Placa de Catalunya fan festival ensures that the city remains a “motorsport capital” even in the years when the cars don’t physically race at Montmelo.
This deal serves as a blueprint the survival of other European tracks. Rumours suggest that tracks like Imola, Monza and even the Hungaroring may eventually be asked to enter similar rotation agreements to make room for new global bids from markets like Thailand, South Korea or Rwanda. By alternating venues, F1 can effectively “feature” two tracks while only using one slot on the calendar. This prevents the schedule from expanding to 25+ races which teams have strictly protested due to personnel burnout.
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