Spanish Grand Prix 2026
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, a circuit that has served as the ultimate benchmark for car performance and is a favourite testing venue for every F1 team.
Race Information
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
Montmeló, Barcelona, Spain
66
4.657 km
1991
Max Verstappen (1:16.330, 2023)
About Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been a mainstay of the Formula 1 calendar since 1991, hosting the Spanish Grand Prix in the town of Montmeló just north of Barcelona. The track is widely regarded as one of the most complete circuits in the sport, featuring a balanced mix of high-speed corners, tight hairpins, long straights, and elevation changes that thoroughly test every aspect of a car's performance. This is why it has long been the preferred venue for pre-season testing.
The circuit's layout demands a well-balanced car and rewards aerodynamic efficiency. The long main straight leads into the heavy braking zone of Turn 1, one of the best overtaking spots on the track. The sweeping Turn 3 and the high-speed Turn 9 are particular highlights that reward driver bravery and car downforce. The final sector, with its tight chicane complex, places a premium on traction and mechanical grip, making tyre management a crucial strategic consideration throughout the race.
Barcelona's warm Mediterranean climate typically produces dry, hot race conditions that push tyre degradation to the limit. The abrasive track surface and high-energy corners mean that teams must carefully balance performance against tyre wear, often leading to varied strategic approaches that spice up the racing. Fernando Alonso's famous victories at his home race in 2006 and 2013 are fondly remembered, while the circuit continues to produce competitive racing with the current generation of ground-effect cars.
How to Watch the Spanish Grand Prix
In the UK, the Spanish Grand Prix is broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, with streaming available through Sky Go and NOW TV. The one-hour time difference means the race typically starts in the early afternoon UK time.
Channel 4 shows extended highlights. Visit our TV schedule page for session times and channel details.
International coverage is available via F1 TV Pro, DAZN (Spain), ESPN (USA), and other regional broadcasters.
Previous Winners
| Year | Winner | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2024 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2023 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2022 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2021 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes |