IndyCar Confirms Multiyear Deal to Race in Barcelona Starting in 2027

IndyCar announced on Friday that the series will travel to Spain in 2027 for a race at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, a move previously reported by Motorsport.com.

The inaugural IndyCar Grand Prix of Barcelona is scheduled for Sunday, July 18, 2027. Serving as the centerpiece of Phase Two of the 2027 IndyCar Series schedule, the event will provide series stalwart and five-time champion Alex Palou with a home race.

The multiyear agreement marks IndyCar’s first race outside North America since 2013, when James Hinchcliffe triumphed on the streets of São Paulo, Brazil. It also represents the series’ long-anticipated return to Europe, last visited in 2007 at the TT Circuit Assen in the Netherlands.

“This is a monumental day for our sport,” said Mark Miles, President and CEO of Penske Entertainment Corp. “We are pleased to bring our ultra-competitive brand of wheel-to-wheel racing to Europe, and we are thrilled to showcase IndyCar in Alex Palou’s hometown. We have witnessed Alex’s remarkable skill and talent for years, and we know his fans in Spain have been eager to see him race in person.

“We cannot wait to see the NTT IndyCar Series compete at one of the world’s most recognizable motorsports venues, set against the backdrop of a historic and breathtaking international destination like Barcelona.”

Palou, 29, claimed his fifth IndyCar Series championship in 2026. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver became just the second racer in series history to win four consecutive titles, joining Sebastien Bourdais (2004–07). With five championships in six years and 25 career victories—tying him for 17th on the all-time wins list—Palou trails only A.J. Foyt (seven) and teammate Scott Dixon (six) for the most titles in series history.

“I’m thrilled to be part of IndyCar’s first race in Barcelona,” Palou said. “It’s an amazing opportunity, and it means a great deal to me to race at home in Barcelona. I know the fans are going to love it, and I believe we will put on a great show. Together with Chip Ganassi Racing, we will do everything we can to bring home the trophy in July.”

Located in Montmeló just outside Barcelona, Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has stood as a premier international racing venue since opening in 1991. The circuit has hosted elite championships such as FIA Formula One and MotoGP, earning global recognition for its high-speed corners and technically demanding layout.

For local organizers, adding IndyCar aligns with a broader strategy to diversify and elevate the venue’s world-class offerings.

“The arrival of IndyCar is a major milestone and an exciting challenge for Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya,” said Pau Relat, Chairman of the Board of Fira de Barcelona and Fira Circuit. “Bringing one of the most prestigious and spectacular championships in global motorsport to our venue strengthens our international positioning, connects us with new audiences and markets, and reinforces our strategy of diversifying the circuit’s activity through world-class events. We are working with a long-term vision to make the IndyCar Grand Prix of Barcelona a benchmark event on the international racing calendar for years to come.”

IndyCar officials noted that the full Phase Two lineup for the 2027 schedule—including the complete race calendar and official broadcast times—will be announced at a later date.

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