Great moments
The fans who attended the inauguration of Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunyaon September 29, 1991, can tell their generations about it. They witnessed the epic fight between two giants of Formula 1; the British Nigel Mansell and the legendary Ayrton SennaThe former managed to overtake the Brazilian driver in a fight as agonizing as it was fleeting. It was a narrow track with only two straights. Memorable is that image of both cars, Mansell's Williams-Renault and Senna's MacLaren-Honda They rubbed their wheels until the sparks almost ignited the concern of the fans. Many feared a tragic outcome. But beyond Senna's category, it rained at times over the Montmeló area that day, making driving difficult. Mansell took advantage of his experience in wet conditions and won the race that day. While Senna - at that time leader of the World Championship - finished fifth in the inauguration of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The race ended with Mansell first. Then came Prost, Patrese, Alesi, Senna (who would eventually be the World Champion that memorable 1991) and the incipient Schumacher sixth. Pure history.
The macro transformation
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is undergoing major changes, which will make it much more modern, position it as an international reference and make the facilities the most modern in Europe. Beyond the 4,674 meters of track -which will remain unchanged- the fundamental point in this change will be in the infrastructure. Specifically in the buildings adjacent to the track. With these renovations, the Circuit will be able to be at the forefront of what social responsibility requires. Each construction will use renewable energy. Thus, in the future, we will speak of a benchmark in environmental commitment, which seeks to eliminate the carbon footprint. To this end, there is a 50 million euro investment plan. The facilities will be modernized and adapted to meet new needs, with a sustainable, innovative, industrial and digital model, so that Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya becomes a key infrastructure for Spanish sport. The works are part of a strategic plan presented in 2022, which will be completed in 2026. Although as early as 2024, it will be possible to enjoy noticeable advances in the new features for the motor racing fans who come to the Circuit.
Changes in infrastructure
here are traditions that do not change, such as the classic names of the various corners of Circuit Barcelona-CatalunyaCircuit Barcelona-Catalunya. Such as 'Curva 3', known by the people as'Curvón'.It is also called 'Curva Renault', because of the advertising of the French car brand; this is one of the fastest in the world. There is the 'Curva 8', famously called 'La Moreneta', because it is in front of a large farmhouse built there before the construction of the Circuit. When we look at it, we know we are in Catalonia, thanks to the typical architecture, walls that today keep the central offices of the Circuit. There is also the 'Curva 10', popularly known as 'La Caixa', its name derives from the gigantic advertisement of a banking institution. According to experts, one of the most dangerous and respected corners, by drivers and fans in the world. All of the above will not change, because they are traditions. What will have a reform in Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will be seen in 80% of its buildings, not substantially on the track. But let's go by parts. There will be -for example- a total modification in the control tower. We will see the remodeling of the briefing and press rooms. Improvements to the marshals and timing offices. The pit building will also be modernized with a new roof and there will be total changes in the pit lane sector to improve the performance of the teams' work.
The new Rooftop you need to know about
The main jewel for spectators and the public will be seen in 2024. An exclusive Rooftop (panoramic, open-air, open-air terrace) will be created. It is a VIP walkway that will connect the Paddock with the Stadium area. The design of this Rooftop, together with the roof of the Main Grandstand, will become an emblem of this race in Catalonia towards the motor world. This area will have two restaurants, four bars, cafeterias and rest rooms. Everything under the concept of increasing performance, especially for hospitality and tourism. There will be DJs and a warm atmosphere, mixed with the adrenaline of the races, but without leaving aside the Mediterranean touch, gastronomy and a very Barcelona chic environment. When will we be able to enjoy the Rooftop? The premiere is expected to be on June 23, during the F1 Spanish GP. A new jewel that fans of the F4 Spanish Championship and Eurocup-3 will also be able to enjoy.
A green and ECO circuit
Last October 2023, the Circuit inaugurated the self-consumption photovoltaic installation. It is a huge step, because this advance has become the largest public network -of this type- in Catalonia. It consists of 1239 solar panels that generate the sum of 33% of the energy consumed by the Circuit today. In addition to this, the 25 hectares of green areas will be used to multiply the planting of trees and the organization of singular events linked to the world of entertainment and healthy leisure and sport and physical activity for families. The Circuit -supported by the Generalitat de Catalunya and the Montmeló City Council - will be a tool to boost industry and technological and scientific innovation in Catalonia, with the use of buses and green mobility transport. This, then, will be the great challenge for the Spanish GP at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
