Madrid to replace Barcelona as Spanish Grand Prix host from 2026

Madrid is set to take over hosting duties for the Spanish Grand Prix starting in 2026, replacing Barcelona. The new race will unfold on a novel 5.47km circuit around the Ifema exhibition centre, positioned between Madrid and Barajas airport.

Formula 1, committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, anticipates this event to be one of the most accessible on the calendar, with 90% of fans having the option to utilize public transport via metro and train lines.

For the first time since 1981, Madrid will host Spain’s grand prix, transitioning from the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where the race has been held since 1991. F1 remains engaged in discussions with Barcelona, leaving room for the possibility of the city hosting an additional race alongside Madrid.

The new circuit in Madrid, spanning 20 corners and incorporating both street-circuit and road-course sections, is designed to initially accommodate 110,000 fans per day, with plans for expansion to 140,000, positioning it as one of the largest venues on the F1 calendar.

Spain has witnessed a resurgence of interest in Formula 1 in recent years, attributed to the return of two-time world champion Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz’s prominence with the Ferrari team. Sainz, winning the Singapore Grand Prix in 2023, brought further excitement to Spanish F1 fans. F1 President Stefano Domenicali expressed enthusiasm about Madrid hosting the race, emphasizing the city’s rich sporting and cultural heritage.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised the focus on environmental sustainability, aligning with F1’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon by 2030. Domenicali highlighted Madrid’s proposal, stating it epitomizes F1’s vision for a multi-day spectacle that maximizes value for fans while embracing innovation and sustainability.