The track.

The track has undergone major changes in recent years: in 2021 turns 10 and 11 were transformed into one long hairpin and last year, the unpopular final chicane, a thorn in the driver’s side which demanded a lot from the cars in terms of traction at the very end of the lap, has reverted to its original layout, namely two very fast corners propelling the cars onto the start-finish straight at full speed. These changes have not created any major overtaking opportunities, but they have definitely improved the show. The best place to attempt a passing move is at the end of the straight that is over a kilometre in length, as well as at turns 5 and 10.

Special grandstand.

As usual at his home race, there’s a grandstand specifically for Carlos Sainz’ most ardent fans. The man from Madrid has finished in the points in all nine of his appearances here.

Programme.

The Spanish Grand Prix runs to the normal weekend format: the first two free practice sessions take place on Friday, starting at 13.30 and 17.00 CEST, with a final hour of practice on Saturday at 12.30. Then comes qualifying at 16.00 with the 66 lap race starting on Sunday at 15.00.

THREE QUESTIONS TO...

CARLOS SAINZ #55, SCUDERIA FERRARI HP DRIVER

1. It’s time for your home race. How special is it to race in front of your fans?

It´s definitely one of the most special moments of the year for me! Being able to race in front of your home crowd is a privilege and I´m super excited for the upcoming weekend. The circuit is buzzing the entire time with thousands of Spanish fans and the support I get from them is very special. I also have a special grandstand, the Grada CS55, which is full of super tifosi! It has become a very nice tradition and I simply love driving past it and seeing the atmosphere there.

2. Can you tell us about the characteristics of the track? What does it take to be quick at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya?

This is a track with a lot of character and we drivers (most of us at least!) know it very well because of the amount of testing we have done here in the past. Turns 1, 2 and 3 is a very nice combination with medium to high speed corners where your neck is put to the test! Turn 9 is also super-fast and a bit of a blind corner because it´s uphill. You need to treat your tyres nicely in the first part of the lap if you want to extract the maximum in Sector 3 and complete a competitive lap in Quali!

3. On Wednesday, you will be driving a Ferrari Formula 1 car through the streets of Barcelona in an event for the public organised by our partner Santander. How special is that going to be?

I think this is something unique in the city of Barcelona and I´m extremely proud to be able to participate! It will give the people a closer look at the car and we will have fun together doing some tricks! I’m really looking forward to the whole experience and I hope people enjoy it as much as I know I will!