The newly constructed Madring circuit is officially prepared to host its inaugural Formula One Spanish Grand Prix on September 13. This confirmation follows two days of rigorous testing involving 30 drivers and 10 teams, who navigated the 5.4-kilometer (3.3-mile) track throughout Monday and Tuesday.
The circuit, which winds around exhibition halls near Madrid’s primary airport, consists of a hybrid layout combining purpose-built sections with existing roadways. During the evaluation period, organizers successfully stress-tested the track’s performance alongside essential sporting, medical, safety, and technical coordination systems. While the sessions saw nearly 20 stoppages due to cars venturing off-track, officials confirmed that all operations functioned effectively under real-world conditions.
Drivers provided positive feedback regarding the technical challenges of the layout. Théophile Naël of Van Amersfoort Racing noted that certain sections evoke the atmosphere of street circuits in Monaco and Macau, adding that the sensation of g-forces at high speeds is remarkable. Spanish driver Bruno del Pino praised the banked “La Monumental” corner, describing the experience as “the most adrenaline-fueled of the entire season.” He emphasized that the track demands total focus, stating that the energy of the circuit makes the field eager for the official race.
This year’s event marks a significant return for Formula One to the Madrid region, which last hosted a race at the Jarama circuit in 1981. Other historical Spanish venues for the sport include the Jerez de la Frontera track, which held races between 1986 and 1990, as well as in 1994 and 1997. Madring has secured a long-term commitment to the sport, with a contract extending through 2035.
In a major development for the event, organizers announced a partnership with Real Madrid, which will serve as a local event organizer. The club’s training facility, Ciudad Real Madrid, sits just 200 meters from the circuit’s northern entrance. This proximity has facilitated a unique collaboration, granting the circuit access to specific club facilities during the race weekend.
Real Madrid is set to maintain a significant presence throughout the event, with club legends and prominent figures participating from exclusive hospitality spaces. Organizers stated that this partnership unites one of the world’s most decorated football clubs with a premier international sporting event, creating a high-profile atmosphere for the inaugural Madrid race. The report also notes that 13 following two days of running that included several red flags for drivers going off track at the new hybrid circuit. The report also notes that drivers said they liked what they experienced in the new circuit, according to organizers. The report also notes that so I really like this circuit because some sections remind me of them,” said Théophile Naël, who drives for team Van Amersfoort Racing, i feel very comfortable in Macau and Monaco. The report also notes that you can feel the g-forces, when you are flat out. The report also notes that the adrenaline is at 100% on every lap,” he said, adding that the circuit “fills you with energy and gets your heart racing. The report also notes that and in 1994 and 1997, the Jerez de la Frontera track in southern Spain hosted races from 1986-90.
