Catalonia will host the sole European Grand Prix for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, North America's premier open-wheel category, as part of a multi-year agreement. President of the Generalitat, Salvador Illa, celebrated the deal as an opportunity seized through collaborative effort, noting that "sometimes when one door closes, others open".
The head of the Executive highlighted the importance of the Circuit de Catalunya, calling it a "national asset" beyond its role as a Formula 1 venue. Illa concluded that the championship "will be very beneficial, helping to promote the image of the Circuit, Barcelona, and Catalonia".
The arrival of INDYCAR in Barcelona coincides with the success of Catalan driver Alex Palou, a five-time champion of the series and winner of the Indianapolis 500. Palou, who was part of the Circuit's Young Drivers program, received recognition for his career achievements. President Illa championed Palou, born in Sant Antoni de Vilamajor, as "a source of pride for the country and an example for young people".
The Minister of Business and Labour, Miquel Sàmper, emphasized that INDYCAR's inclusion "strengthens the Circuit's international positioning and expands its offering of major motorsport competitions," fostering a "new ecosystem for the racing automotive sector" and attracting "quality tourism from the United States".
The event was attended by Miquel Sàmper, Minister of Business and Labour and President of Circuits de Catalunya; Pau Relat, Chairman of the Board of Fira de Barcelona and Fira Circuit; and Mark Miles, President and CEO of Penske Entertainment Corp., owner of the Indycar Series. The event reinforces economic and industrial ties with the United States, particularly with Indiana, and opens avenues for collaboration in innovation, technology, and mobility.
