Spanish Grand Prix: the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit, the right mix of slow and fast corners
F1 heads to Barcelona this weekend for the Spanish Grand Prix, a race won last year by Max Verstappen, but which saw both Mercedes drivers on the podium.

After passing through Canada, Formula 1 is back in Europe with a triple header, starting this weekend with the Spanish Grand Prix. Organized at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, located in Montmelo, a few kilometers north of Barcelona, this event attracts thousands of motorsport fans from all over the world every year.
The Spanish Grand Prix has been part of the Formula 1 World Championship since 1951, although its first edition dates back to 1913. Inaugurated in 1991, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya saw its first Formula 1 race won by the legendary Nigel Mansell.
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is known for its diversity and complexity. It measures 4.657 kilometers and includes 14 corners, in its new layout, that test the technical skills of the drivers and the performance of the cars. The track is famous for its mix of fast corners, slow turns, and long straight lines, providing numerous overtaking opportunities and varied strategies. Drivers will have to complete 66 laps on Sunday, covering a total distance of 307.236 kilometers. The fastest lap record belongs to Max Verstappen, who set a time of 1:16.330 last year.
One of the most striking aspects of the circuit is corner 3, a long right-hand corner that requires great stability of the car and well-heated tires. The final sector, with its tight corners, is also crucial to achieve a good lap and is often the decisive place to secure a good starting position on the grid.
The challenges for teams and drivers
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is also a privileged testing location for Formula 1 teams. Due to its varied characteristics, it is often used for winter testing, allowing teams to collect valuable data on the behavior of their cars in realistic conditions.
The weather also plays a crucial role in the progress of the race. The Mediterranean climate can offer sunny and hot days, putting a strain on the tires and the management of the car’s temperature. However, unexpected showers can disrupt strategies and add a dose of suspense to the race. We should not be spared from this this weekend, according to weather forecasts.
One of the most famous moments on this circuit is undoubtedly the first victory of Max Verstappen in 2016, making him the youngest Grand Prix winner in history at just 18 years old. The same Verstappen who also won the 2023 edition of the race, but saw George Russell and Lewis Hamilton on the podium, against all odds. We are not done with our surprises this weekend…