Spain handed one-year reprieve

Michelle Foster
Spain handed one-year reprieve

Spain handed one-year reprieve

The Spanish Grand Prix will remain on the 2020 F1 calendar after agreeing a one-year extension with Liberty Media.

For the past few months the Barcelona race has been on the line with reports claiming its days are numbered.

However, with the teams agreeing to up the calendar to 22 races for 2020, Spain’s chances of retaining its spot were given a welcome boost.

A deal was finally announced on Tuesday.

While it is only a one-year deal, F1 boss Chase Carey is hoping that the 2020 agreement will lead to a long-term contract.

Thanking Catalan president Quim Torra for his “vital support”, Carey added: “The decision to continue to stage a round of the pinnacle of motorsport in Spain, a country with a great motor racing tradition, dating back to the start of the last century, is part of our strategy of maintaining Formula 1’s European roots, while also currently expanding the championship into new territories.

“The promoter’s willingness to be part of Formula 1 going into 2020 is proof of the sport’s ability to act as a catalyst for regions to hold world class events and also to have a positive impact on the area’s economy.

“In the coming months, we will continue our discussions to see if we can further extend this advantageous relationship.”

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