Catalonia’s government has given the green light for officials at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya to ratify a 2021 Formula 1 contract with Liberty Media.
Formula 1’s Spanish Grand Prix has been held annually at the circuit, located on the outskirts of Barcelona, since the venue was constructed in 1991.
It was anticipated that the 2019 round could be its swansong but a one-year extension was struck for the event to remain on the 2020 calendar.
Its grand prix, initially scheduled for May, took place in mid-August – behind closed doors – as part of the calendar overhauled in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Spanish Grand Prix was listed on the provisional 2021 Formula 1 calendar, with a date of May 9, but remained subject to a commercial agreement being reached.
Circuit officials have now been granted approval to strike the necessary financial arrangements with Formula 1 organisers.
“The Government has authorised the company Circuits de Catalunya SL to sign with the company Formula One World Championship Limited (FOWC) the renewal of the contract for the organisation of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix for the year 2021,” read a statement issued.
“The signature guarantees the celebration of the 31st consecutive edition of this event at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Montmeló.
“The F1 Grand Prix is an asset that contributes to Catalonia’s position in the world in the fields of tourism and automotive.
“Its continuity will also make it possible to maintain the presence of the circuit in the calendar of the main national and international motor competitions.”
Spain’s event is set to be the fifth round in a record-breaking 23-event calendar.
Early 2021 rounds remain under threat due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and entry restrictions in various territories, while the fourth scheduled round, on April 25, does not yet have a location.
The Netherlands is due to return after a 36-year absence, with its Zandvoort round scheduled for September 5, while Saudi Arabia will join as the penultimate event in late November.
