Imola could replace Madrid in the 2026 F1 calendar amid major construction delays. Major doubts surround the new Madrid street circuit for 2026.

F1 | Shocking twist: Imola could return in 2026 in place of Madrid. Here’s why

A sensational development could be unfolding: Imola may be ready to rejoin the Formula 1 calendar in 2026, replacing the new Madrid Grand Prix. The rumour has quickly spread across the paddock, and here is what has triggered it.

It appeared that Imola’s chapter was closed after it was removed from the 2026 F1 schedule. However, a surprising scenario is now emerging. According to multiple paddock insiders, Madrid is reportedly not yet ready to host its inaugural race in the 2026 season, currently scheduled for September. The delays seem so significant that Liberty Media has already activated its reserve list — with Imola placed at the top.

In response to these rumours, the editorial team of RMC Motori visited the site where the Madrid circuit is supposed to be built. What they found did not paint a reassuring picture.

The situation looks disastrous

Based on what RMC Motori discovered during their on-site inspection, the situation appears heavily compromised. The current view is of a vast construction area filled with bulldozers and excavators sitting motionless, with no visible signs of progress. The most concerning area is the pit building — home to the garages, race control, and hospitality spaces — which reportedly still resembles a swamp.

Despite this, some officials insist the project is progressing as planned. The President of the IFEMA Madrid Executive Committee, José Vicente de los Mozos, told Spanish media that the circuit’s construction works “are being carried out in accordance with the law and within noise limits.”

Promoters continue to claim their schedule remains fully in line with the planned timeline. De los Mozos admitted, however, that it is now time to accelerate, as rain and the winter season could slow down the work. He explained that these challenges are normal for a project of this scale. Still, another important perspective must be considered — the one shared by local residents.

Residents in the area tell a very different story. Some say: “There is no circuit, and we don’t even know if it will exist. It’s just a huge mess of cranes, people coming and going, idle machinery, and heaps of dirt.” From the outside, that is exactly the impression the site gives.

Meanwhile, 50,000 tickets have already been sold for the Madrid Grand Prix scheduled for September 2026. A cancellation would reflect poorly on Madrid, on Spain, and on Formula 1. As all of this unfolds, Imola remains on standby — eager and hopeful to welcome Formula 1 once again in the 2026 season.