Africa's issues might present a positive opportunity for the Barcelona Grand Prix.

      "Negotiations are ongoing."

      The latest updates regarding Formula 1’s efforts for a grand prix in Africa may bring favorable news for Barcelona. In recent years, it has become evident that Liberty Media, under F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, is eager to hold a race in Africa, the only continent not represented in the current world championship. Three separate proposals have been made in Kyalami, Cape Town (both in South Africa), and Rwanda. However, during this weekend in Monaco, Domenicali acknowledged that progress on all three has slowed down. "Negotiations are ongoing," stated the Italian, "we are gradually making headway and collaborating to find the best solution. But when a new opportunity arises, it is crucial to ensure it has long-term potential. We cannot venture into a new location without a guarantee of staying there for an extended period." Domenicali also mentioned: "We are evaluating three venues, but I do not anticipate any decisions in the near future. We are genuinely interested in hosting a grand prix on the African continent, but for now, it’s about identifying the right strategy. Hopefully, we can share more details about this project soon."

      Issues in Africa could be advantageous for anxious race organizers in Barcelona, as Madrid is set to assume the official Spanish GP title starting in 2026, which coincides with the final year of the Circuit de Catalunya’s current F1 contract. Leading the negotiations for a new agreement is regional business minister Miquel Samper, who also serves as the president of the Formula 1 circuit in Barcelona. "The negotiations are progressing well," he was quoted as saying by Diario Sport. "That’s the reality, but it also means very little. This type of negotiation, with numerous interests and several circuits currently vying to host a grand prix, requires us to be very discreet, similar to when we successfully finalized the agreement with MotoGP and Dorna." Samper concluded by acknowledging that there is "more competition from cities, not just Madrid, that aspire to host a grand prix."