Madrid Welcomes F1 with the New Madring Circuit

A Long-Term Partnership with Formula 1

On a momentous Friday, the city of Madrid officially unveiled its upcoming Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, called the Madring, set to host the prestigious motorsport event for a decade starting in 2026. This announcement was made during a grand event, attended by notable figures such as Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the president of the Community of Madrid, and José Luis Martínez Almeida, the mayor of Madrid. Among those celebrating this milestone was Carlos Sainz, a driver for Williams Racing, who has taken on the role of ambassador for the Madring project. The combination of political backing and a strong association with a well-known driver adds to the excitement surrounding this endeavor.

Circuit Features and Design

The Madring circuit will encompass a distance of 5.4 kilometers, featuring 22 turns that promise to deliver thrilling racing action. Organizers revealed plans for the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix, which will span 57 laps, and showcased a digital onboard lap of the circuit to give fans a glimpse of what to expect. The design pays homage to Madrid’s rich history, beginning with a significant 589-meter straight, one of the longest stretches on the track. As the race kicks off, drivers will accelerate from the starting line, with an intense nearby sprint leading into Turn 1. It’s anticipated that the combination of high-speed action and strategic braking at Turns 1 and 2 could create exciting overtaking opportunities.

As racers navigate the circuit, they will tackle a variety of challenges, including the fast right-hander known as Curva de Hortaleza. This turn is named after a nearby neighborhood and leads into public roads that showcase the urban essence of Madrid. Following this, drivers will encounter a speed trap near Turn 4, where they can hit approximately 340 km/h before entering a tight chicane—a risky but conducive area for overtaking.

A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

The design of Madring also features notable innovations, such as a steeply banked corner called La Monumental, which draws inspiration from both Zandvoort’s Luyendyk corner and Madrid’s famous bullfighting arena, Las Ventas. With a gradient of 24% and a length of 550 meters, it provides a unique twist to the circuit, allowing drivers to reach speeds close to 300 km/h. To enhance fan experience, a grandstand accommodating up to 45,000 spectators will be constructed alongside this striking feature. With turns designed for both speed and strategy, the circuit promises an exhilarating showcase for drivers and fans alike.

After La Monumental, the course progresses to Turn 13—a slow left-hander that serves as another overtaking zone. This section is juxtaposed with high-speed straights that allow for aggressive racing, particularly as the racers speed past Real Madrid’s training facilities. The complexity of the circuit endures, as drivers will face the challenge of navigating twisting turns before entering the final stretch, which culminates in a concluding corner referred to as The Park, named after the nearby Juan Carlos I Park.

Construction Plans and Future Prospects

Construction on the Madring circuit is set to begin in the sprint of 2024, fueled by a recently signed contract between local firm ACCIONA and France’s Eiffage Construction. This partnership aims to tackle initial concerns regarding the progress of the tender process and to ensure timely completion as the inaugural race approaches. The circuit is gearing up not only to bring Formula 1 excitement to Madrid but also to enhance tourism and local pride. As hosting rights cement Madrid’s status alongside Barcelona in 2026, the city prepares to embrace the vibrant culture of F1 while encouraging a sense of unity among fans.

The addition of the Madring to the F1 calendar marks a significant step for motorsport in Spain, providing an exhilarating alternative to the historically renowned circuits. With a goal to establish itself as a renowned venue in the racing community, the development of this new circuit serves as a reminder of the incredible growth and transformation of the sport in the country.

Excitement in the Air

The anticipation surrounding Madring is palpable, and fans are already looking forward to the ways this new circuit could impact Spanish motorsport. The combination of stunning design, strategic racing features, and a commitment from local authorities signals a bright future for Formula 1 in Madrid. Viewers, both in-person and through broadcasting, can expect a thrilling festival of speed starting in September 2026.

As the countdown begins, stakeholders are buzzing with excitement over the potential economic and social impact the event will have on Madrid. Besides directly benefiting the hospitality and tourism sectors, hosting the Grand Prix could also promote local businesses and encourage investment in infrastructure improvements, making the city an attractive destination for international visitors.

A Future Full of Possibilities

As we look ahead to 2026, the Madring Circuit stands as a symbol of Madrid’s ambition and love for motorsports. With ongoing developments, spirited community involvement, and exciting engagements planned across the city, it promises not just a memorable race but an unforgettable experience for fans and participants alike. The enthusiasm shared at the recent unveiling indicates a strong communal backing that could propel Madrid into the hearts of Formula 1 aficionados worldwide.

The next chapter in Madrid’s motorsport history is poised to bring together not only elite athletes and thrilling racing but also the spirit of a vibrant city eager to embrace one of the most exhilarating sports in the world. The journey to realize the full potential of the Madring will undoubtedly be exciting, marking the start of a transformative era for Formula 1 in Spain and ensuring that the capital takes its place on the global racing stage.