Williams driver Carlos Sainz delighted fans by driving through the streets of Madrid, celebrating the addition of a new event to the Formula 1 calendar in 2026. This special demonstration marked the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix scheduled for September 13, 2026, at a newly constructed circuit in Spain’s capital.
The announcement of the 2026 Formula 1 calendar, revealed just before the Canadian Grand Prix, confirmed the inclusion of the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid, replacing last year’s venue in Barcelona. As a proud Spanish racer, Sainz took center stage by performing impressive maneuvers in his FW45 car, impressing a large crowd and previewing the excitement that the new track promises.
Madrid Set to Host Spanish Grand Prix with New ‘Madring’ Circuit
The 2026 season will not only introduce new technical regulations but also bring fans to the new “Madring” racetrack in Madrid, marking a significant shift for the Spanish Grand Prix. Despite Madrid’s rise, the long-standing Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will remain on the calendar next year, even though its future beyond 2026 is unclear.
The Barcelona Grand Prix, known for delivering thrilling and sometimes controversial moments, currently holds a contract only through 2026. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has commented on the situation, emphasizing the possibility of Barcelona staying as a venue in future seasons despite Madrid’s debut.
The fact we are in Madrid is not excluding the fact we could stay in Barcelona for the future,
Looking ahead, there are discussions in place to see if we can really extend our collaboration with Barcelona, with whom we have a very good relationship, for the future,
—Stefano Domenicali, F1 CEO
No further developments about the future of the Barcelona circuit have been announced publicly since Domenicali’s remarks, but Madrid’s position on the calendar is secured until at least 2035.
Sainz’s Emotional Celebration on Home Streets
For Carlos Sainz, driving on the streets of his hometown was a deeply emotional experience shared with more than 80,000 spectators. Sainz described the moment as a “dream come true,” reveling in the opportunity to pilot his F1 car through familiar surroundings.
He expressed his gratitude and excitement about the event, highlighting its importance not only to himself but also as a sign of the promising future for Madrid in Formula 1.
Hi everyone, we just finished the event here where I took this bad boy here around the streets of Madrid, a dream come true for me because it’s an unbelievable day to be able to drive around the streets where I grew up with my F1 car in front of a crowd of more than 80,000 people.
It’s something that I will never forget, I will always keep it in my memory, It’s a super emotional day but it’s just like we say in Spain, an aperitivo for what is coming here next year.
I think it’s going to be a great event and this is just the start of, I hope, a great time for Madrid in Formula 1.
—Carlos Sainz, Williams F1 Driver
Looking Forward to the 2026 Season
The addition of Madrid to the Formula 1 circuit signals both change and growth for the sport in Spain. While the transition from Barcelona to Madrid introduces new challenges, it also offers fresh opportunities for fans and drivers alike. The excitement generated by Sainz’s demonstration foreshadows what could become a landmark event on the calendar.
As Formula 1 evolves with new venues and regulations, the momentum behind the Madrid Grand Prix positions the city as a future mainstay. With the backing of key figures such as Stefano Domenicali and enthusiastic local support, the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix is poised to become a highlight of the racing season for years to come.
