Barranquilla’s Mayor Alejandro Char expressed significant optimism this week regarding the city’s renewed efforts to host a F1 Grand Prix in Barranquilla, Colombia, stating that negotiations are focused on securing a 10-year commitment rather than a single-season event.
Speaking on the progress of the bid, Char indicated that a concrete announcement regarding the feasibility of the “Caribbean Grand Prix” could arrive by the end of the first half of 2026.
The mayor emphasized that this latest attempt differs from the failed process of 2021 and 2022 because it relies on direct agreements between the city district and Formula One Management rather than seeking the endorsement or budget of Colombia’s national government.
Char noted that Barranquilla has active lobbying efforts underway and that technical teams have already reviewed a preliminary track layout designed to showcase the city’s recent urban transformation.
Barranquilla is set to have a semiurban F1 Circuit
The proposed semi-urban circuit would run along the scenic banks of the Magdalena River, incorporating landmarks such as the Gran Malecon, La Loma, and the “Aleta del Tiburon” monument. The route is also expected to pass by the site of the future Movistar Arena.
Char stated that recent technical delegations were surprised by the infrastructure developments in the area, which are critical for meeting the strict FIA Grade 1 safety and technical standards required to host the world’s premier racing category.
Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has lent his support to the project, noting that the international organization has expressed a genuine interest in a Caribbean-themed race. Montoya suggested that the interest from the FIA is a significant first step, though he cautioned that the city must still resolve several technical points.
“Va muy bien y no sería por un año, sino por diez”: Alejandro Char insiste en que Barranquilla tiene “muy buenas posibilidades” de traer la Fórmula 1. https://t.co/if1kX8q65f pic.twitter.com/XeOYqWlqbR
— Revista Semana (@RevistaSemana) February 25, 2026
While the 2026 racing calendar is already seeing new additions such as Madrid, officials in Barranquilla suggest that a formal entry into the championship could potentially target the 2027 or 2028 seasons.
Hosting a grand prix involves substantial financial commitments, with annual hosting fees for street circuits often exceeding US$40 million. However, city leadership views the event as a strategic investment to boost global visibility and tourism.
If the deal for F1 in Barranquilla, Colombia, is finalized, it would join a growing list of high-profile locations in the Americas, positioning itself as a strategic partner alongside established races in Miami and Mexico City.