F1 | Madrid mayor denies rumors about Imola replacing the Madrid Grand Prix. The mayor of Madrid denies rumors about a possible return of the Imola Grand Prix.

Formula 1 returning to Imola? The mayor of Madrid denies everything

After several rumors suggesting a potential return of the Imola Grand Prix in place of the new Madrid Grand Prix, the mayor of the Spanish capital has denied everything. Madrid’s mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, confirmed that the next Formula 1 Grand Prix in the city will take place on 12 September and emphasized that construction of the new urban circuit is running ahead of schedule, contrary to the speculation about a possible comeback for Imola. The announcement was made during an interview with Europa Press, where the mayor stated that “the construction of the circuit is ahead of the planned schedule and is progressing perfectly.”

Imola was ready to take the slot, but Almeida was clear

Almeida also dismissed media reports that hinted at a possible cancellation of the event, highlighting the strong performance of early ticket sales and the commitment shown by sponsors. He remarked:

“I don’t know where this news comes from. The sponsors are there, the circuit is under construction, so I’m sorry, but on September 12 next year there will be Formula 1 in Madrid, and it will be a resounding success.”

One of the possible replacements mentioned by the media was Imola, which will no longer host Formula 1 from next year, but the mayor of Madrid does not seem to believe that this scenario is realistic.

The Madrid circuit is facing strong criticism

The event will be held on the new urban layout designed in the IFEMA Madrid–Valdebebas area, with the goal of positioning Madrid among the global cities capable of hosting the pinnacle of motorsport. Almeida’s confirmation arrives in a climate of skepticism, as many media outlets had speculated about delays in construction. Many residents oppose the creation of the autodrome due to the significant disruption the event is expected to cause, and the project is not widely appreciated among fans either. The main reason is simple: the so-called “Madring” would become yet another street circuit added to the calendar, and its arrival has contributed to the removal of historic venues such as Imola or Spa.