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Contents
Quick facts about the Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya
- Location: Montmeló, Barcelona, Spain
- Opened: September 10, 1991
- Track Length: 4.657 km (2.894 miles)
- Number of Turns: 16 (9 right, 7 left)
- Lap Record: 1:16.330 by Max Verstappen (2023, Red Bull Racing)
- Capacity: Around 140,700 spectators
- Major Events: Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix, and endurance races
- Famous Sections: Turn 1 (great for overtakes), Campsa Corner, and the long main straight
Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya layout
Start Line and Turns 1–6
The 1,047-meter pit straight leads into Turn, a prime overtaking zone with late braking. Holding the outside line sets drivers up for Turn 2. Turn 3 is a flat-out right-hander with intense g-forces, followed by the sweeping Turn 4. The section slows at Turn 5, a tight downhill left, before the subtle Turn 6 kink.
Turn 10 – La Caixa
After the back straight, drivers confront Turn 10, a third-gear, left-hand corner ideal for overtaking. Precision braking is key to navigating this section cleanly and maintaining momentum into the next technical sequence.
Pit lane entrance
Just before the final corners, the pit lane entrance, demands sharp deceleration and timing. It’s a critical point for executing smooth pit stops without losing race positions.
Track dynamics and challenges
The circuit’s layout is tough on aerodynamics, with shifting wind conditions affecting car balance. The morning understeer can switch to the afternoon oversteer, which complicates setups and tire strategies.
A full-throttle lap experience
The lap tests skill through the blind, high-speed Turn 9, into the braking zone of Turn 10. The final corners are fast and sweeping, leading to an exhilarating charge down the start/finish straight.
Barcelona f1 circuit facilities
Accessibility
Fan zones
Dine
Rules/regulations
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is equipped with facilities to ensure an accessible experience for all fans:
- Disabled parking: Designated parking is available in front of Gate 1 (North Area) at PA2
- Accessible seating: Special seating areas for disabled fans are located in the upper section of Grandstand G (stadium area) and in the Main Grandstand (along the main straight, opposite the pits)
- Adapted facilities: The Main Grandstand features lifts and adapted toilets, while Grandstand G also offers adapted toilet facilities.
The Fanzone, located behind the Main Grandstand, is the perfect spot to enjoy the race-day atmosphere. Shop for official team merchandise, explore displays from major sponsors or grab a bite to eat and drink.
Don’t miss the Boulevard of Champions (Avinguda dels Campions), where plaques honor the World Championship-winning drivers and MotoGP riders who have competed at the circuit over the past 30 years.
- Food options inside the circuit are limited. Prices are on the higher side, with water and soft drinks costing around €4 for 500ml, and basic fast food like burgers and hot dogs starting at €8. Full meals, such as pasta or pizzas, cost more.
- For better value, consider stocking up on snacks and drinks at a supermarket before heading to the track. However, glass, cans, and alcohol are prohibited inside the circuit. Only non-alcoholic beer is available on-site.
- If you prefer a proper drink and a wider food selection, check out the bars and food trucks just outside entrances like Gate 1 and 6.
- Each grandstand has nearby food zones offering local street food, ensuring you won’t go hungry during the race.
To ensure safety and security, the following items are not allowed inside the circuit:
- Glass, metal, or wooden containers.
- Alcoholic beverages. Only soft drinks, water, lemonade, and non-alcoholic beer are available inside.
- Sharp objects like knives or scissors.
- Pets and service animals are not allowed.
- Bicycles, scooters, and other personal transport devices must be left outside.
- Pyrotechnic devices, including cannons, flares, and smoke bombs.
- Professional audio-visual equipment.
Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya grandstands
Main Grandstand
Overlooking one of the longest finishing straights, the Main Grandstand offers views of the race start, pit lane action, and the iconic Barcelona totem with current standings. It's covered for comfort during hot days but has limited views of the curves.
- Pros: Covered for comfort on hot Spanish days!
- Cons: Limited views of corners and other technical sections.
- Closest entrance gate: Gate 3
Grandstand C
Grandstand C stretches from Turn 12 to Turns 13 and 14, offering an excellent view from Turn 10 to the pit entry, opposite the track's final turn. This section is known for its technical challenges, speed variations, and overtaking opportunities!
- Pros: Ideal for observing how drivers approach the last turns.
- Cons: Limited overtaking opportunities in this section
- Closest entrance gate: Gates 1 & 2
Grandstand F
These seats provide excellent views of cars charging down the main straight, passing the iconic scoreboard tower and pit lane entrance, and braking hard into the right-hander at Turn 1. You'll also catch the action through Turns 2 and 3, along with glimpses of the mid-field curves at Turns 6 and 7
- Pros: Close view of intense wheel-to-wheel battles in Turn 1
- Cons: Action may slow after the initial laps
- Closest entrance gate: Gate 5
Grandstand G
This elevated grandstand offers clear views of the first corners of the stadium area, including the 70 km/h hairpin at Turn 10 and cars speeding through Turn 11 at 140 km/h. Recently refurbished, Grandstand G features ergonomic, numbered seats, and a large screen to follow all the race action.
- Pros: Good view of technical driving and positioning in the final sector
- Cons: Lacks high-speed excitement compared to other areas.
- Closest entrance gate: Gate 1
Grandstand L
Grandstand L is one of the most popular and sought-after viewing spots at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, offering spectators a comprehensive and thrilling experience. Located on the inside of the track, it provides an all-around view of the circuit, making it ideal for fans who want to see a variety of racing action.
- Pros: Decent chance to witness overtakes and drivers navigating tight corners.
- Cons: Slower-paced section with limited high-speed action
- Closest entrance gate: Gate 7
General Admission
General Admission tickets at Circuit de Catalunya offer access to various viewing areas. The circuit's hilly landscape provides natural vantage points, with popular spots in front of Grandstand L and the banked hill around Turn 3. Many fans enjoy the flexibility of General Admission, allowing them to move around, relax, and picnic on the grass. However, the viewing experience can vary based on where you secure a spot.
- Pros: Flexible access to various sections of the circuit; most affordable option.
- Cons: Restricted views depending on crowd size and fencing.
- Closest entrance gate: Gate 7
Frequently asked questions and answers about Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya
How do I get to Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya?
The circuit is located about 32 kilometers northeast of Barcelona's city center. You can reach it via car using the AP7 highway (Exit 13 for Montmeló) or by public transport, including buses from Barcelona's Estació del Nord and a shuttle service from Montmeló train station
What is the circuit's layout?
The circuit is approximately 4.655 kilometers long with 16 corners, featuring a mix of high-speed straights and technical sections. Notable corners include Turn 3 and Turn 9
How do I access grandstands?
Access to grandstands is through designated entrances. It's advisable to check the circuit map for the most convenient entrance for your grandstand
Is there parking available at the circuit?
Yes, but it's limited and often requires advance booking for major events.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, but glass and cans are prohibited, and alcohol is not allowed inside the circuit.
Is the circuit accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, there are designated viewing areas and accessible facilities for visitors with mobility needs.
What should I wear to the circuit?
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially for summer events.
Can I bring a camping chair or umbrella?
Yes, for General Admission areas, you can bring foldable chairs or umbrellas, but ensure they don’t obstruct the view of others.