IndyCar returns to Europe

The IndyCar Championship is returning to Europe with the confirmation of an Indy Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from July 16 to 18, 2027. This event is part of a ten-year agreement between Penske Entertainment and the Catalan circuit officials, marking the first time since 2013 that an IndyCar race will be held outside of North America.

Álex Palou's home race

The event is particularly significant for Álex Palou, the reigning IndyCar champion and driver for Chip Ganassi Racing. He will compete in front of his home crowd in Barcelona, expressing his excitement about racing in his hometown and hoping to achieve sporting success during the event.

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya's expansion

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, which has hosted major international competitions such as Formula 1, MotoGP, and the World Endurance Championship, will welcome IndyCar as part of a strategy to diversify its activities. Pau Relat, president of Fira de Barcelona and Fira Circuit, emphasized the significance of the event for the circuit’s international positioning.

Penske Entertainment's international effort

Mark Miles, president and chief executive officer of Penske Entertainment, highlighted the culmination of years of work to expand IndyCar internationally. The chosen date avoids a conflict with an F1 Grand Prix on the same date, and Miles called the event a historic day for the sport, noting the importance of showcasing the championship in Europe.

Growing interest in Spain

The performances of Álex Palou have contributed to increasing interest in IndyCar in Spain, according to Miles. He noted that Palou's talent has drawn attention from Spanish fans who have been eagerly waiting to see him race in person.

Circuit configuration under review

The exact configuration of the circuit remains to be determined, with two variants under consideration. One would be 4,657 kilometers with 14 turns, and the other 4,675 kilometers with 16 turns and a chicane before the main straight. The championship still needs to confirm the track chosen for this first edition.