Spanish Grand Prix relocates to Madrid in 2026

Exciting news has resonated throughout the motorsport world: the Spanish Grand Prix will find a new home from 2026, with Madrid replacing Barcelona as the host of this prestigious race. The agreement, which runs until 2035, brings this race to Madrid for the first time since 1981.

The new runway will be strategically located “around the Ifema exhibition centre, between the Spanish capital and Barajas airport”, says Andrew Benson’s report on BBC.com. Since 1991 the race has been firmly rooted at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, but now Madrid is taking over the wheel, promising a new and exciting experience for drivers and fans.

Formula 1’s President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali, shared his excitement about this change, emphasizing that the sport is constantly in dialogue with Barcelona about the future. There is still the possibility of Barcelona hosting additional races together with Madrid. Domenicali emphasized Formula 1’s preference for long-term collaborations with race hosts, stating that they are a sport that attracts attention with its long-term commitments.

As the new circuit approaches capacity, F1 says it will initially be able to host 110,000 fans a day, with plans to expand capacity to 140,000, making it one of the largest venues on the F1 calendar. This large capacity perspective reflects the continued global interest and demand for Formula 1’s spectacle.

Domenicali notes that recent additions have generally been made in the USA and the Middle East, with the Spanish Grand Prix being moved to Madrid underlining that Europe is still a main and extremely popular market for Formula 1. He notes that at a time when Europe is reluctant to invest in sports, cities like Madrid are showing this interest and commitment.

This change isn’t just about racing; A testament to the globality and resilience of Formula 1. Madrid is becoming the center of racing that transcends borders, as Formula 1 continues to evolve, adapt and improve. The move of the Spanish Grand Prix to Madrid is an exciting turn not only for motorsport enthusiasts, but also for those who appreciate the magnitude and excitement of motorsport.