Formula 1 has secured the long-term future of two traditional racing circuits: Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya receives a new contract until 2032, but will be held in a rotation system with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. This solution ends months of speculation about the fate of both traditional racing venues, which were under pressure to modernize their outdated facilities.

After the already planned 2026 race, Barcelona will return to the calendar in 2028, 2030, and 2032, while Spa-Francorchamps will host races in 2027, 2029, and 2031. At the same time, the Catalan race receives a new name: the Spanish Grand Prix becomes the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, as the official Spanish Grand Prix will now take place on the new street circuit in Madrid.

The Catalan racing circuit had come under considerable pressure recently, as its infrastructure was considered outdated and extensive investments were needed to secure its place in the F1 calendar. Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been a permanent fixture in the Formula 1 World Championship since 1991 and is considered an important testing venue for teams due to its diverse corner characteristics.

The rotation model reflects the growing pressure on traditional European racing circuits, as Formula 1 increasingly focuses on lucrative new markets. With this solution, both historic venues can secure their future, even though they must give up their annual presence in the calendar. This leaves one race slot open in the 2027 F1 calendar, as neither Barcelona nor the new Madrid race will take place.