Barcelona remains committed to securing a permanent future in Formula 1.

      Barcelona is determined to maintain its aspirations of securing a permanent spot on the Formula 1 calendar each year, even after agreeing to alternate years with Spa-Francorchamps starting in 2028. These remarks come shortly after Manuel Avino, the president of the Royal Spanish Automobile Federation, indicated that Barcelona could potentially return as early as 2027, especially if ongoing instability in the Middle East compels Formula 1 to reconsider its plans.

      Catalan president Salvador Illa emphasized that there is still a push from local authorities for a more significant role in Formula 1. "We are not dismissing any possibilities," he stated at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on Sunday. "With the prestige of Barcelona and Catalonia, as illustrated this week, we can aim for whatever we desire."

      Barcelona has recently reached a new agreement that covers the years 2028, 2030, and 2032, sharing its calendar slot with Spa. Nevertheless, Illa does not view this alternating arrangement as the final decision. "Only two countries host more than one F1 Grand Prix - the United States and Spain. This also reflects the trust in Catalonia," he noted.

      In an interview with AS newspaper in Barcelona, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali pointed out that local authorities had previously believed that the race would continue regardless of the level of investment. "I can say this because I was clear with my friends in Barcelona," he remarked. "When a major promoter requires government support for investment, there was a time when Barcelona thought they had this race guaranteed, independent of the investments made and the improvements needed."

      Domenicali mentioned that perspectives have shifted significantly since then. "Now, those involved at the governmental level and on the promoter's team have done an incredible job to regain the race. There are some very key individuals involved, and I appreciate the President of Catalonia for his dedication," he added. "They were committed to achieving this agreement and worked diligently to secure the future of a circuit that rightfully deserves to be included in F1."

      Illa also shared that he had met with Domenicali during the Spanish GP weekend for further discussions. "I just met with Domenicali, and we had a very productive conversation," the Catalan leader said. "He appeared very pleased and content with how things are progressing here. I look forward and am confident that we will have Formula 1 in Barcelona for many years to come."