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Formula 1 has long made its mark on the streets of Barcelona-Catalunya, but in 2026, the focus will shift to the capital as the Madrid Grand Prix takes center stage. This exciting new addition to the racing calendar promises to invigorate the event landscape for the next decade.
On Friday, the new venue, dubbed Madring, was unveiled with local figure Carlos Sainz as a key ambassador. The presentation was attended by notable politicians including José Luis Martínez Almeida and Isabel Díaz Ayuso, emphasizing the event’s significance to the city.
Stretching 5.47 kilometers and featuring 22 corners, the track aims to provide a blend of a street circuit feel alongside Madrid’s rich history and stunning architecture. The inaugural race will consist of 57 laps, with initial designs indicating a blend of speed and technical challenge.
Track Overview
Madring starts with a 589-meter straight, the second longest on the circuit, leading into a chicane at Turns 1 and 2. This critical section demands drivers to slow from 320 km/h to 100 km/h, setting the stage for potential overtaking without relying on DRS.
Curva de Hortaleza, or Turn 3, introduces the race’s essence, weaving through the bustling Ribera de Sena Street. The subsequent Turns 5 and 6 lie beneath a motorway overpass, recognized as optimal overtaking spots where speeds could soar to 340 km/h.
The course seeks to unite history and modern racing, featuring the Subida de las Carcavas, a climb with an 8% gradient that leads into Turn 7, where drivers must navigate a blind summit before tackling “El Bunker,” a right-hand turn close to remnants of the Spanish Civil War.
As the track continues, it shifts to a specially designed area near the Valdebebas festival grounds.
The Steep Challenge of La Monumental
A key highlight of Madring will be La Monumental, a dramatic, steeply banked corner with a 24% gradient, drawing inspiration from Spain’s bullfighting culture.
At speeds nearing 300 km/h, this imposing turn, equipped with grandstands for 45,000 spectators, is poised to create unforgettable moments. However, there is a cautious optimism—past circuits like Jeddah and Miami have boasted impressive designs but struggled to resonate with the deep-rooted excitement of traditional racing venues. La Monumental could either be a standout feature or another overhyped element.
Beyond this uniquely banked corner, the circuit maintains a demanding pace with Turn 13 requiring a sharp deceleration before launching drivers into the “Las Enlazadas de Valdebebas.” The layout aspires to capture elements reminiscent of classic circuits like Monaco and Monza, though achieving the right balance will be crucial.
Development and Future Outlook
Construction for the Madring is slated to begin next month, led by Spanish firm ACCIONA in collaboration with France’s Eiffage Construction. This partnership aims to ensure that the ambitious plans unfold according to schedule.
Interestingly, upon its debut in 2026, the Madrid Grand Prix will not displace the Barcelona race, allowing for a rare year where two significant events will take place in Spain, seemingly marking a respectful farewell to the Catalunya circuit.
The Final Assessment
Madring symbolizes Madrid’s vibrant culture and aspirations. It possesses historical significance, a unique character, and significant ambition.
Yet, what ultimately defines a circuit’s legacy are the memorable moments it cultivates.
With the groundwork laid, the 2026 season will reveal whether Madring can etch its name into the annals of Formula 1 history or if it risks becoming yet another elaborate structure lacking substance.
Source
www.forbes.com