The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been the race’s home since 1991, but it became increasingly apparent during 2023 that Madrid looked set to take over hosting of the Spanish GP.
However, Barcelona could yet secure a place for a second race in Spain. The country has supported two events in the past, when the European GP was run at Jerez in 1994 and 1997, and then in Valencia between 2008 and 2012.
The challenge is that slots on future calendars are at a premium as more venues sign long-term deals.
“For the avoidance of doubt and to clarify here, the fact we are in Madrid is not excluding the fact we could stay in Barcelona for the future,” Domenicali told the F1 website.
“Looking ahead, there are discussions in place to see if we can really extend our collaboration with Barcelona, with whom we have a very good relationship, for the future.”
Domenicali stressed that there continues to be healthy interest in F1 in Spain, which currently has two drivers on the grid in double world champion Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz.
“Spain was a market that just a couple of years ago, was not in the centre of our eyes,” he said.
“Now it is very important. We signed a new deal with Spanish broadcaster DAZN until at least the end of 2026.
“It’s a nice problem to have, to have multiple cities – some in the same country – wanting to host a grand prix.
“It shows the value of our proposition. But we need to keep focused on the reason for our success, and make sure we aren’t complacent.”
The Italian stressed that the push for a race in Madrid reflected the overall health of the series, with many potential host cities showing interest in joining an increasingly busy schedule.
He also acknowledged that a high-profile new venue in Europe bucked the trend that has seen the series expand in the USA and the Middle East.
Madrid track layout
“It’s great news for F1 as it shows once again that there is strong appetite around the world for our sport,” he said.
“It shows that at a moment where Europe is perceived to be a place that is not ready to invest in our sport, Madrid and others are showing it is.
“They have presented a fascinating project, one that will be built in the next couple of years and a project that is considering the fans and their whole experience, from their travel to the whole event experience.
“The proposition we received from the promoter was great. Since the first day, it has…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Autosport.com – Formula 1 – Stories…