Formula 1 is set to make history in 2026 with the inaugural Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, marking a new chapter for the famous Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya following the relocation of the traditional Spanish Grand Prix to Madrid’s new Madring circuit.
The event will officially debut on the Formula 1 calendar in June 2026 and will become part of a rotational agreement with the Belgian Grand Prix. Under the arrangement, Barcelona-Catalunya will host a race during even-numbered years, while Spa-Francorchamps will take its place in odd-numbered seasons. The agreement is scheduled to run until 2032, meaning the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix will return in 2028, 2030, and 2032.
Although the race carries a new name, fans can expect a familiar challenge for drivers and teams. The event will continue to take place at the renowned Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, one of Formula 1’s most established venues and a circuit known for its mix of high-speed corners, technical sections, and demanding tyre management requirements.
The race distance remains unchanged from previous Spanish Grand Prix editions, with drivers set to complete 66 laps around the iconic track. Over the years, the circuit has produced numerous memorable moments and remains a valuable test of a car’s overall performance package.
The race weekend will begin on Friday, June 12, with teams taking to the track for the opening practice sessions. Free Practice 1 is scheduled to start at 12:30 local time and will give drivers their first opportunity to evaluate track conditions and fine-tune their setups for the weekend. Later in the afternoon, Free Practice 2 will run from 16:00 to 17:00, providing additional track time as teams gather crucial data ahead of qualifying.
Action resumes on Saturday, June 13, with the final practice session. Free Practice 3 is set to take place between 11:30 and 12:30 local time, offering teams one last chance to make adjustments before the all-important qualifying session.
Qualifying is scheduled for 15:00 to 16:00 on Saturday and will determine the starting grid for Sunday’s Grand Prix. With overtaking traditionally proving challenging at the Barcelona circuit, securing a strong grid position could play a vital role in determining the outcome of the race.
The main event, the 2026 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, will get underway on Sunday, June 14. The race is scheduled to start at 14:00 local time and is expected to run until approximately 16:00, depending on race conditions and any interruptions.
2026 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix Schedule
Session Date Time
Free Practice 1 Friday, June 12 12:30 – 13:30
Free Practice 2 Friday, June 12 16:00 – 17:00
Free Practice 3 Saturday, June 13 11:30 – 12:30
Qualifying Saturday, June 13 15:00 – 16:00
Race Sunday, June 14 14:00 – 16:00
With a fresh identity but a familiar venue, the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix promises to be one of the highlights of the 2026 Formula 1 season as the sport continues to evolve with new locations and revised calendar arrangements. Fans can look forward to a competitive weekend at one of the championship’s most respected circuits.
