F1 Rumour: Madrid Set To Pay Almost Double That Of Barcelona For Spot On Calendar

It has been reported that Madrid is set to pay almost double what Barcelona pays to be on the Formula One calendar from 2026.

Madrid has secured its position as the host city for the Spanish Grand Prix starting in 2026, introducing a semi-street circuit. This move not only marks a shift in location but also establishes a new high in the financial stakes of hosting Formula One races, significantly outpacing Barcelona's investment, according to a report from Spanish platform 3CAT.

Key Takeaways

• Historic Shift to Madrid: The Spanish Grand Prix is set to move to Madrid from 2026. The event will feature a semi-urban circuit financed initially by public funds through IFEMA, with plans to attract private investors.
• Financial Commitment of Madrid: Madrid's agreement with Formula One involves a staggering 48 million euros annually, totalling nearly 500 million euros over 10 years. This rate is almost twice what Barcelona pays for the Circuit de Catalunya and ranks Madrid among the most expensive European circuits in Formula One.
• Barcelona's Future in Limbo: While Barcelona's future in Formula One remains uncertain, there's a chance it could still feature in the World Championship post-2026. However, to retain its position, Catalunya may need to increase its financial contribution significantly, potentially surpassing 30 million euros.

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Yesterday's announcement by Formula One brought a significant change to the landscape of international motorsports. Madrid has been confirmed as the new host city for the Spanish Grand Prix, beginning in 2026. 

Under the new agreement, the financial burden of hosting the Grand Prix falls on IFEMA, with initial funding coming from public sources, according to the report from 3CAT. The plan is to subsequently seek private investment to ensure the profitability of the new circuit. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has left the door open for Barcelona to continue hosting races beyond 2026, suggesting the possibility of both cities featuring in the World Championship.

Madrid's financial commitment to Formula One is unprecedented in Europe, with a reported annual payment of 48 million euros. This amount, summing up to almost 500 million euros over a decade, far exceeds the 26 million euros paid for the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona. With this new agreement, Madrid sets a new benchmark for European circuits in terms of financial investment in Formula One.

The future of the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona remains uncertain as negotiations continue. The entry of Madrid into the Formula One calendar with such a substantial financial commitment signifies a major shift in the sport's landscape.

IFEMA - Madrid Grand Prix