IndyCar confirmed a new marquee international event for the 2027 season: the Grand Prix of Barcelona at the Circuit de Barcelona‑Catalunya. The race is scheduled for Sunday, July 18, and will serve as the centerpiece of Phase Two of the 2027 INDYCAR schedule.
Why Barcelona matters
The addition brings the North American open‑wheel series to Spain for the first time and marks its first race outside North America since James Hinchcliffe won in São Paulo in 2013. It also returns IndyCar to Europe, a continent it last visited at the TT Circuit Assen in the Netherlands in 2007.
Local hero Alex Palou
Barcelona native and five‑time series champion Alex Palou of Chip Ganassi Racing will race on his home turf. “I’m so excited to be part of INDYCAR’s first race in Barcelona,” Palou said. “It is an amazing opportunity, and it means so much to me to have a race at home in Barcelona. I know the fans are going to love it, and we’re going to try hard with the team to bring home the trophy in July.”
Official statements
Mark Miles, President and CEO of Penske Entertainment Corp., called the announcement “a monumental day for our sport” and praised the chance to showcase INDYCAR in Palou’s hometown. Pau Relat, Chairman of the Board of Fira de Barcelona, said the event will strengthen the venue’s international positioning and diversify its calendar.
Context with Formula 1
The move comes as Formula 1 is shifting away from the Barcelona circuit, with its 2027 calendar featuring a new street race in Madrid. The permanent circuit’s availability created an opening for INDYCAR to step in.
Reactions from the racing community
Spanish driver Fernando Alonso, speaking at the United States Grand Prix media day in Austin, called the Barcelona race “a historic event for our country” and highlighted the advantage of a permanent circuit that can host a variety of motorsport events throughout the year.
The remainder of Phase Two of the 2027 INDYCAR schedule will be announced at a later date.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
