F1 applauds Barcelona’s efforts, yet the future of a second race in Spain is still in doubt.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has stated that signing a new contract with Barcelona is still a possibility.
On Wednesday, before this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix, the Italian joined around 40,000 residents in the city centre for a pre-weekend showcase event with Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) and Jack Doohan (Alpine F1) driving demonstration cars.
With Madrid joining the calendar from 2026, the Barcelona city centre event is part of a concerted effort to persuade Formula 1 that hosting two Grands Prix in Spain is feasible for future schedules.
Domenicali admits he was impressed by what he saw on Wednesday.
“I must say that the work of Oriol Sagrera (CEO of the Circuit of Catalonia) since he took office has been incredible and very professional.”
“I don’t like to publicly state what is good and what is not, but Barcelona’s goal is to enhance what is offered to fans.”
“However, for now, we are focusing on the short term to make this event fantastic. Then, we will discuss the future at the appropriate time. That remains between us.”
However, he readily admits that having two separate races in Madrid and Barcelona beyond 2026 is not ideal.
“On one hand, one might say no. On the other, there could be a potential for growth.”
“With Fernando (Alonso) and Carlos, Spanish sponsors are very interested in our sport and we have secured a great deal with DAZN for the broadcasting rights.”
“The time will come to make a decision for the future. There is still a possibility. So, although it’s tough, I don’t want to rule it out. We will consider it when the time comes.”
Domenicali acknowledges that one possibility is for Barcelona to bid to alternate some European races annually.
“Europe can maintain the current number of races, more or less, and we will remain stable with 24 Grands Prix. The opportunity for Europe is to alternate races in the coming years, as we are now a true world championship rather than a very European championship.”
Barcelona Impresses F1; Second Spain Race Unclear. Barcelona Impresses F1; Second Spain Race Unclear
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