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IndyCar Will Hold Talks for Barcelona Race in 2027

The racing series is negotiating with officials to bring an event to Spain in 2027.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Motorsports

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IndyCar officials are negotiating to bring a 2027 race to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, aiming to expand the series' reach beyond North America. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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IndyCar is currently in discussions to host a race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in 2027. This move would mark the series first race outside of North America since 2013.

Why it matters

The series seeks to leverage the success of Spanish driver Alex Palou, who has won five titles in six years, while the Barcelona track needs to fill schedule gaps.

Alex Palou has secured four consecutive NTT IndyCar Series titles. The proposed 2027 calendar currently includes eight events.

The players

Alex Palou

He is a Spanish racing driver who has won four consecutive NTT IndyCar Series titles.

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya

This is a permanent race track in Spain that currently holds an F1 schedule.

The details

Negotiations between the racing series and track organizers are ongoing to determine the financial viability of the event. Success hinges on securing enough sponsorship and promoter support to cover significant freight and travel expenses.

Timeline

  1. 2013: Last IndyCar race held outside of North America.

  2. March 7, 2027: IndyCar 2027 season opener in St. Petersburg.

  3. June 6, 2027: Detroit Grand Prix.

  4. 2027: Target year for proposed Barcelona race.

  5. 2028, 2030, 2032: Upcoming F1 race dates at Barcelona circuit.

The Big Picture

The proposed 2027 race would be the first time IndyCar has competed outside North America since the 2013 IndyCar race in Brazil. The current negotiations mark a potential return to the series' 2013 strategy of hosting international races.

A successful race in Spain would significantly alter the 2027 travel and logistical schedule for the IndyCar series. Fans should monitor the calendar as the series fills the current gap following the June 6, 2027, Detroit Grand Prix.

The takeaway

If confirmed, the event would represent a major shift in the series' geographic footprint by returning to overseas competition. The outcome largely depends on whether organizers can secure the financial backing required for international transport.

Further reading

For more updates on the racing calendar, visit the Motorsports section.

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Would you attend a major league sporting event if your favorite series hosted it abroad?