IndyCar Returns to Europe for 2027 with Barcelona Grand Prix

The IndyCar Series is heading back to Europe for the first time in two decades, scheduling its inaugural Grand Prix of Barcelona for July 18, 2027. Announced by Penske Entertainment Corp., the multiyear agreement brings top-tier open-wheel racing to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain.

This upcoming event marks IndyCar's first race outside North America since 2013 and its first appearance on European soil since competing at the TT Circuit Assen in the Netherlands in 2007. The race will serve as the centerpiece of Phase Two of the 2027 IndyCar Series schedule.

Penske Entertainment Corp. President and CEO Mark Miles emphasized the magnitude of the announcement. "We are pleased to be able to take our ultra-competitive brand of wheel-to-wheel racing to Europe and thrilled that we can showcase IndyCar in Alex Palou’s hometown," Miles stated.

The race provides a unique milestone for Barcelona native Alex Palou, who secured his fifth IndyCar Series championship in 2026. Palou joins elite company as only the second driver in series history to claim four consecutive titles. Expressing his excitement, Palou said, "It is an amazing opportunity, and it means so much to me to have a race at home in Barcelona, it’s hard to put into words."

Located just outside Barcelona in Montmeló, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has operated as a premier international racing venue since 1991. Known for hosting high-profile championships like FIA Formula One and MotoGP, the circuit features high-speed corners and a technical layout.

Pau Relat, Chairman of the Board of Fira de Barcelona and Fira Circuit, noted that the arrival of IndyCar aligns with local organizers' broader strategy to diversify the venue's offerings. Relat stated that bringing the championship to the venue "strengthens our international positioning, connects us with new audiences and markets, and reinforces our strategy of diversifying the circuit’s activity through world-class events."

IndyCar officials announced that the complete Phase Two lineup, including a full list of races and official broadcast times, will be released at a later date.