This weekend marks the penultimate Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, as Formula 1 prepares for a new chapter with the introduction of a semi-street race in Madrid for the 2026 season. The upcoming Madrid event is set to become Spain’s sole Formula 1 race starting in 2027, prompting Lewis Hamilton to express his concerns about the new track’s potential.
Hamilton Questions the Viability of the New Madrid Circuit
The 2026 F1 calendar will debut a fresh circuit in Madrid, dubbed the ‘Madring,’ marking a significant change in Spain’s motorsport calendar. This 5.4-kilometer course features 22 corners weaving through urban streets before leading onto a specially constructed section near Real Madrid’s training complex and the Valdebebas festival grounds.
The track’s design highlights include a prominent banked turn graded at 24%, along with the second longest straight on the current Formula 1 calendar. The Madring is scheduled for an autumn slot in 2026, while the traditional race at Barcelona will also run that year but is expected to be removed thereafter, making Madrid the sole host.
When asked about the emerging Madrid circuit during a media session ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton, who drives for Ferrari, admitted he had not followed the track’s development closely.
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I don’t have a particular view on it, to be honest,
”
he stated candidly.
Hamilton expressed his fondness for racing in Barcelona, calling it “a beautiful city” and highlighting its significance as a classic venue.
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I’ve honestly not been to Madrid, but heard great things about the city. Not seen the track plans, either, so can’t comment.
”
Reflecting on Barcelona’s Status and Spain’s Racing Future
When asked about what might be missed if Barcelona were to be dropped from the calendar, Hamilton acknowledged the importance of the circuit’s heritage.
“I think ultimately losing any of the classics — and this is one of the classics — would be a shame, because this is, you know, as I’ve said, it’s a great city.”
He also pointed out the passionate Spanish fan base, especially after the era of Fernando Alonso.
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This feels like the home of Formula 1 in Spain. But it’s okay to progress as a sport.
”
Concerns Over New Track Development in Madrid
Despite Madrid’s appeal as a location, Hamilton revealed a cautious stance towards the quality of new circuit designs.
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Madrid, as I said, is a great location, as long as they build a good circuit,
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he said, adding a note of skepticism.
He underscored the unpredictability inherent in creating new tracks for Formula 1, highlighting a recurring trend where fresh venues often fail to capture the excitement of established circuits.
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Building new circuits is very, very hit and miss.
”
Hamilton further elaborated:
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Ninety-plus percent of the time it’s worse, so as long as it’s a better circuit, or as good a circuit, then I’m not bothered either way.
”
His remarks indicate a lack of enthusiasm, tempered by the acknowledgment that the new track may still surprise him once he experiences it firsthand. Hamilton’s perspective carries weight, considering his experience and success on a variety of circuits worldwide.
Significance and Future Outlook for Spain’s Formula 1 Scene
The transition from Barcelona to Madrid signals a notable shift in Spain’s Formula 1 landscape, as the sport seeks innovation through urban circuits and fresh venues. The Madring’s combination of street sections and purpose-built track elements aims to offer a distinctive racing spectacle, though skepticism remains about whether it can match the excitement delivered by traditional circuits like Barcelona.
If successful, Madrid will become the emblematic Spanish race, potentially attracting new audiences and showcasing a different style of racing. However, the reaction from prominent figures like Lewis Hamilton highlights the challenges organizers face in balancing heritage with progression.
Ultimately, the coming seasons will reveal whether the Madring lives up to expectations or if the loss of Barcelona’s classic circuit leaves a notable void in the Formula 1 calendar.
