Updated: October 15, 2025
The Spanish Grand Prix at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya marks the beginning of an exciting triple-header in the Formula 1 calendar. The track layout of Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is set to reveal crucial insights into whether Red Bull has maintained its dominance or if they have been caught by their F1 rivals following a recent surge of competition in the championship. The previous races in Montreal showcased a genuine three-way battle for victory, with McLaren and Ferrari each securing wins in May, shifting the narrative away from Max Verstappen's early-season dominance.
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is renowned for its unique characteristics, serving as a comprehensive testing venue for F1 teams due to its diverse array of corners. The mix of high-speed, medium-speed, and low-speed turns, coupled with a long main straight, enables teams to assess their car's strengths and weaknesses across different corner types. This track often dictates a clear pecking order during qualifying sessions, with team-mates frequently lining up alongside each other.
Former F1 strategist Bernie Collins highlighted the significance of the Spanish Grand Prix, stating, “We will get a better read on the upgrades McLaren and Ferrari have got. Have Red Bull genuinely slipped down the order?” The dry conditions and teams' familiarity with the track assure optimized car setups and tire management, leaving no room for teams to hide their performance levels during the demanding Spanish Grand Prix weekend.
Since 2017, the team winning the Spanish Grand Prix has gone on to clinch the constructors' championship in the same year. Despite Red Bull's 49-point lead over Ferrari in the standings, McLaren is trailing behind by a further 49 points. The competition is fierce, with Sergio Perez's struggles potentially impacting Red Bull's firm grip on the championship. McLaren and Ferrari must showcase strong pace during the Spanish Grand Prix to stay in contention for the title.
The high tire degradation caused by the long, high-speed corners at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya emphasizes the strategic aspect of tire management. Pirelli has responded by supplying the three hardest tire compounds for the race, fostering a two or three-stop strategy that offers teams multiple tactical options. The historical removal of the last chicane on the track has enhanced overtaking opportunities, adding an element of unpredictability to the race.
Sky Sports F1's live Spanish GP schedule
- Thursday June 20
- 1.30pm: Drivers' Press Conference
- Friday June 21
- 7.45am: F1 Academy Practice
- 8:50am: F3 Practice
- 10am: F2 Practice
- 12pm: Spanish GP Practice One
- 1.55pm: F3 Qualifying
- 2.50pm: F2 Qualifying
- 3.35pm: Spanish GP Practice Two
- 5.25pm: F1 Academy Qualifying
- 6.15pm: The F1 Show
- Saturday June 22
- 9.35am: F3 Sprint
- 11.15am: Spanish Romagna GP Practice Three
- 1.10pm: F2 Sprint
- 2.10pm: Spanish GP Qualifying build-up
- 3pm: Spanish GP Qualifying
- 5pm: F1 Academy Race 1
- Sunday June 23
- 7.45am: F1 Academy Race 2
- 9am: F3 Feature Race
- 10.30am: F2 Feature Race
- 12:30pm: Grand Prix Sunday: Spanish GP build-up
- 2pm: The SPANISH GRAND PRIX
- 4pm: Chequered Flag: Spanish GP reaction
Formula 1 enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the action-packed weekend at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where the race is expected to provide crucial insights into the championship battle. Watch every session live on Sky Sports F1 and witness the dynamics of the triple-header unfold with intensity and excitement.
