Every passing year the popularity of Formula 1 is touching new heights. Now, everyone wants to be a part of the circus and the best way to do that is to host races. This scenario has given unwavering power to Liberty Media in terms of venue selection. The 2023 season showcased a glimpse of that, with 24 races scheduled for the first time in a single calendar year. However, this is exactly where the old-school wishes of Lewis Hamilton come under threat.

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been on the Formula 1 calendar since 1991. Since then, the circuit has etched itself in F1 history and built a strong and rich history for itself. Barcelona is a veteran in comparison to all the modern tracks part of the sport now. However, change is inevitable and, as reported by Marca, Barcelona is set to face stiff competition to retain their spot in the circus’s busy schedule.

Barcelona’s biggest rival, Madrid, in many aspects, will rival them as the venue for future Spanish GPs as well. The capital of Spain will construct a circuit after getting the green flag from FIA. Madrid’s circuit is approved and might be ready to host races from 2026. However, as disclosed by F1’s CEO Stefano Domenicali, either one of the circuits will lose out.

Because of the proximity of the tracks and the sport’s desire to spread its wings across the globe, there can only be one winner between Barcelona and Madrid.

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Although the Barcelona circuit is safe till 2026. However, after the contract runs out, Hamilton’s desire to race in Barcelona might come to an end.

Lewis Hamilton makes his wishes to continue racing Barcelona known while advocating for other classic tracks

The Spaniard is the second oldest and longest-serving driver on the current grid. Being around in the sport for so long, you tend to develop favorites. For the Mercedes man, one of them is Barcelona.

Speaking to Motorsport.com, Hamilton said, “I don’t think I would want to lose Barcelona. One, I love the city. I do think it’s really important we keep some of the classic circuits. At least the ones that provide great racing. Budapest is spectacular. Silverstone is spectacular. This track [in Barcelona]. There are a lot of really great traditional circuits that we should keep.”

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This massive rise in popularity and constantly changing venues definitely bring a lot of excitement to the fans. However, from the driver’s perspective, it is an annoyance. Although, we doubt the familiarity of a track will ever come into consideration, so it will be interesting to who wins in this F1 El Clasico.