Barba began his single seater career in 2002 driving in the Spanish Formula Junior 1600 series, where he finished runner up to fellow countryman Adrián Vallés.

During his time in the series he accumulated nine podium positions, including three race wins, with his best season coming in 2005 when he finished 5th in the championship.

In 2006 he stepped up to the Formula Renault 3.5 Series with the Swiss team Jenzer Motorsport, taking nine points to finish his debut season 26th overall.

He joined top Italian team International DracoRacing for the 2007 season, taking two podium positions, including his first race win at Donington Park.

For 2008, Barba continued in the World Series, this time switching to the Italian squad Prema Powerteam,[1] with his brother Marco taking over his seat at Draco Racing.