The European triple-header concludes with the Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This year`s event is particularly intriguing, with expectations that a recent change in regulations could significantly alter the Formula 1 competitive landscape.
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been a staple of the F1 calendar since 1991. Following modifications to its layout designed to encourage more overtaking, the track remains a popular testing ground for teams and drivers. Its combination of challenging corners and straights provides an excellent test of a car`s overall capabilities.
Adding to the excitement is a regulation change concerning flexible front wings, which many predict could reduce the performance advantage currently held by teams like McLaren and potentially allow Ferrari to become a stronger contender.
The weather forecast for the weekend is typically pleasant for Spain, with temperatures around 26°C anticipated for qualifying and climbing to 29°C on race day.
Latest News Ahead of the Weekend
- Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur believes changes to front wing flexibility tests implemented at this Spanish Grand Prix could be a significant development for all ten Formula 1 teams.
- After his morale-boosting win in Monaco, Lando Norris has an opportunity to prove whether McLaren`s strong pre-season potential has truly returned at the Spanish Grand Prix.
- American sports drink giant Gatorade has become the official partner for F1 sprint races as part of a new multi-year agreement with PepsiCo.
- Fans can listen to a race preview and the latest insights on ESPN`s F1 podcast, Unlapped.
Circuit Stats and History
The Spanish Grand Prix has a long history in Formula 1, but since 1991, it has exclusively been held at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The track was constructed in 1991 specifically for the 1992 Olympic Games.
Over the years, the layout has seen modifications, such as changes to La Caixa corner in 2004 and the removal of the final corner chicane in 2023 to improve overtaking opportunities. Despite these tweaks, it remains a smooth, flowing circuit where aerodynamic performance through high-speed corners is crucial, making wheel-to-wheel racing challenging but not impossible.
The circuit has provided some memorable moments, including the fierce battle between Nigel Mansell, Gerhard Berger, and Ayrton Senna in its debut race (won by Mansell), Pastor Maldonado`s unexpected victory for Williams in 2012, and Max Verstappen`s stunning first win for Red Bull in 2016 on his team debut. (Image: Max Verstappen has won three Spanish GPs in a row — but is he the favourite this year?)
The track is considered a classic F1 testing venue due to its layout, effectively testing all aspects of a car`s performance. As Carlos Sainz puts it, “This track tests every part of the car. It`s a proper benchmark circuit.” (Image: Michael Schumacher has won six Spanish GPs, including on a masterful day in the rain in 1996.)
Key Circuit Statistics:
First F1 race at this circuit: 1991
Lap record: 1:16.330, Max Verstappen (2023)
Most wins: Michael Schumacher (6) and Lewis Hamilton (6). Active drivers with wins here include Max Verstappen (3) and Fernando Alonso (2).
Most poles: Michael Schumacher (7). Active drivers with poles here include Lewis Hamilton (6), Charles Leclerc (1), Max Verstappen (1), Fernando Alonso (1), and Lando Norris (1).
What Happened Last Year (2024)?
Last year, Max Verstappen comfortably secured his third consecutive Spanish Grand Prix victory. Starting from pole, he was overtaken by Lando Norris into Turn 1 but regained the lead from George Russell a few laps later, dominating the race on his way to a championship-winning season. (Image: Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton are the only drivers to have won the Spanish GP since 2016.)
Predictions: Who Will Win?
Based on recent form, McLaren appears to have a strong package, performing well on circuits like Bahrain that feature a mix of corner speeds. However, the upcoming regulation change regarding flexible wings adds a layer of uncertainty, with many anticipating it could impact McLaren more than other teams.
Despite Max Verstappen`s dominant record at this track, betting against him feels risky. Nevertheless, given the recent momentum and the potential impact of regulation changes, our prediction is for a revitalized Lando Norris to claim his first Spanish Grand Prix victory. (Image: Lando Norris comes into the race on the back of a morale-boosting maiden victory in Monaco.)
Championship Standings Overview
Following his victory in Monaco, Lando Norris has significantly closed the gap to Oscar Piastri in the standings, with just three points separating the two McLaren drivers. Max Verstappen remains firmly in contention for the championship, currently sitting 25 points behind the lead.
In the Constructors` Championship, McLaren has established a considerable lead, holding more than double the points of the next closest team, Mercedes. There`s a close battle brewing just behind Mercedes, with Red Bull (143 points) and Ferrari (142 points) separated by a single point.
How to Watch the Spanish GP
Here`s how to follow the action from the Spanish Grand Prix:
- For fans in the U.S., watch live on ESPN and ESPN+.
- In the U.K., live broadcast coverage is available on Sky Sports F1 and BBC Radio 5 Live.
- Follow news, analysis, and live updates from ESPN`s F1 team on their website and social media channels.
Session Times (BST – British Summer Time)
Local time (Central European Summer Time) is +1 hour.
Friday
Free practice one: 12:30-13:30 BST
Free practice two: 16:00-17:00 BST
Saturday
Free practice three: 11:30-12:30 BST
Qualifying: 15:00-16:00 BST
Sunday
Race starts: 14:00 BST (Live text commentary build-up typically begins earlier)
