F1 Spanish Grand Prix: Madrid is almost ready
The new Madring circuit is entering the final phase of construction, with the first grandstands for spectators now being installed.
Construction of Madrid’s new Madring Formula 1 circuit is moving rapidly towards completion, with visible progress being made every week. The track layout has now been fully defined, many of the run-off areas have already been painted, and the first spectator facilities are beginning to take shape.
Every day brings noticeable changes across the Madring construction site. Work is progressing at full speed, with teams focusing on completing the safety barriers, applying the final layers of asphalt and installing the grandstands. Over the past two weeks alone, seven new grandstands have been erected, highlighting the significant acceleration in the final stage of the project.
Construction is now running slightly ahead of the original schedule, to the point that one of the planned night shifts has already been eliminated.
Grandstands begin to take shape
The first spectator grandstands are now clearly visible in several key areas around the circuit. Among the most striking are those positioned on the outside of the spectacular Monumental corner, Turn 12, where an additional inner viewing section and an elevated spectator platform above the inside wall of the banking will also be available. The corner itself features an impressive 24% banking, making it one of the circuit’s defining characteristics.
At Turn 13, three newly installed covered grandstands can already be seen. For the inaugural Formula 1 event, the circuit is expected to accommodate more than 120,000 spectators, with further capacity increases planned throughout the ten-year contract that secures Madrid as host of the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix.
Technical details of the circuit
Several sections of the circuit are already showcasing the new safety installations and track markings. At Turn 15, just before the entrance to the second tunnel, the run-off areas have been painted in the colours of the Spanish flag, with the yellow section noticeably wider than the red.
This high-speed section has drawn comparisons from Carlos Sainz to some of the most iconic corners at Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps because of its demanding technical characteristics. Nearby, the stepped foundations for another grandstand are already visible. This area will eventually host the grandstand dedicated to the Williams driver, which recently went on sale and is expected to provide one of the best panoramic views around the entire circuit.
Entertainment areas and the final countdown
At the same time, construction continues in the nearby Valdebebas area, which will host the circuit’s extensive fan zone. The space will feature a large concert stage, racing simulators and numerous interactive activities spread across more than 100,000 square metres, creating a complete entertainment experience that extends well beyond the on-track action.
These facilities are scheduled to be completed later this month, adding another important milestone as preparations continue.
With just over two months remaining before Madrid makes its debut on the Formula 1 calendar, the Madring project is approaching the finish line at an impressive pace, rapidly transforming what was once an undeveloped area into a premium-level racing venue ready to host one of the sport’s biggest events.
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