The end is near. Soon, there will be no tangible reminder on the F1 calendar of Max Verstappen’s first victory. No more on-site anecdotes – or grievances – from seasoned colleagues about winter testing and other matters from bygone times. And one less traditional race on the calendar. In short, it’s almost time to say adios Barcelona! Or… is it? Our man in Spain tells the tale…
In Barcelona itself, it seems they’re not ready to give up just yet. In what might be the most beautiful city in Europe, the Passeig de Gracia – fun fact: the most expensive street in Spain – is buzzing with excitement as drivers perform impressive stunts with Formula 1 cars on Wednesday evenings. The star of the show is undoubtedly Carlos Sainz in his Ferrari, much to the delight of the audience. The event is broadcast live on TV, complete with pre- and post-show analysis and interviews. The feeling on the ground is that Catalonia is far from done with Formula 1.
At first glance, it’s a demonstration like any other, with some revving, driving back and forth, spinning donuts, and showing off horsepower. The audience loves it, fans are ecstatic. And rightly so. Who wouldn’t want F1 in their city? But what stands out on this evening in the city of Gaudí and his peers? The fighting spirit of the Catalans. And we’re not talking about a desire for independence – das war einmal, as the Germans would say. No, this is about the fight to keep the Grand Prix.
Although it’s not exactly the most popular race on the calendar among teams, drivers, media, and even fans, it’s still a staple – in my opinion. I understand the Catalans. Especially when you consider that its replacement from 2026 will be a street circuit in Madrid (yikes!). Beautiful, of course. But sensitive in this region, for those who take history into account.
Not that the FIA or FOM always take this into account, nor should they from their perspective. But still, according to the Catalans, this game is far from over. That’s why they went all out this year with the biggest F1 Road Show in the city, according to experts. To show that Formula 1 belongs to the Barcelona region, to all of Catalonia. And they belong to F1.
That street race in Madrid is happening. But here, they don’t want to disappear from the F1 calendar. If necessary, they argue, let there be two races in Spain. It might seem unfeasible. But don’t underestimate the Catalans. Many have made that mistake before.
