Formula 1 has officially taken a major step into a new era with the presentation of the long-awaited Madrid Grand Prix. Unveiled in a spectacular launch event organised by IFEMA, the new “Madring” circuit is set to bring a fresh challenge to the Formula 1 calendar and promises a unique blend of high-speed action, technical complexity, and visual spectacle.
With 87 days remaining until the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix scheduled for 11 September, IFEMA revealed full details of the new Madrid circuit during a high-profile presentation. The Madring layout has been confirmed as part of the Formula 1 World Championship until at least 2035, underlining the long-term commitment to the Spanish capital as a key destination in the sport’s future.
The official slogan, “from Madring to the sky”, was showcased alongside visuals of what is being promoted as the world’s longest elevated corner and a massive representation of the Spanish flag, described by organisers as the largest of its kind in the world.
Carlos Sainz welcomes Madrid Formula 1 project
Williams driver Carlos Sainz, who also serves as ambassador for the Madrid Grand Prix, expressed strong enthusiasm for the new circuit layout and its characteristics. The Spanish driver highlighted the diversity of the track, noting that it combines fast corners, slow technical sections, and both urban and open areas, including the signature “Monumental” corner.
Carlos Sainz described the circuit as a complete package for Formula 1 racing, stating: “It’s a circuit that has everything. Fast corners, slow corners, a street section, and another more open area with the famous Monumental. I can already see it on the trophy, which I would really like to win.”
The Madrid-born driver also joked about the trophy model presented at the event, touching it without hesitation and explaining that he is not a superstitious person. He further added: “It has two very long straights, which are essential for Formula 1 to make races exciting. The hybrid layout is the most surprising thing: you start in an urban area and suddenly you find yourself in a much faster and more open circuit. That combination makes it exciting and different.”
Carlos Sainz also spoke about his personal connection to the project, saying: “It is a source of pride and an honour. It was already emotional to drive a Formula 1 car through these streets. Racing in Madrid, just 20 minutes from my home, will be incredible.” He also confirmed plans for a dedicated “Sainz grandstand” at Turn 8, further linking his legacy to the new venue.
Construction progress and growing expectations
Although the project is well advanced, construction work on the Madrid circuit is not yet fully complete. Remaining tasks include the finalisation of the pit building, paddock complex, grandstands, and several public access areas. Organisers also plan to incorporate fan zones with seating areas designed to provide direct views of key sections of the track.
Despite ongoing construction, progress remains on schedule, with final finishing works expected to continue right up until the weeks immediately preceding the event, a common scenario for debut Formula 1 venues. Demand for the inaugural race has already been extremely strong, with more than 90,000 tickets sold and expectations of a full capacity crowd of approximately 125,000 spectators per day.
A circuit designed for spectacle and overtaking
Visitors to the construction site have already been able to walk the full Madring layout, gaining a clear impression of what Formula 1 drivers will face in Madrid. The pit building and pit lane design reflect modern street circuit standards, similar in style to recent venues such as Miami and Las Vegas, while the track surface has already been fully asphalted.
The opening chicane is expected to become a key overtaking zone, while the long straight along Ribera del Sena leads into a complex left-hand sequence before the climb towards Cárcavas. The opening and closing sectors around IFEMA’s exhibition halls have been designed to meet full Formula 1 safety and performance standards.
The standout feature of the entire project, however, is the permanent section located in Valdebebas. This part of the circuit has exceeded expectations with its elevation changes, flowing high-speed corners, and most importantly, the iconic “Monumental” corner. This 540-metre banked turn features a 24% incline, a blind exit, and leads directly into a major overtaking opportunity at Turn 13. It is already being tipped as one of the most iconic corners in the entire Formula 1 calendar.
IFEMA president José Vicente de los Mozos stated: “It does not resemble any other circuit, it has its own character.” Meanwhile, Formula 1 promoter representative Louise Young added: “Madrid is a city with identity, energy, and culture. This will not just be a Grand Prix, but a complete experience.”
With a vibrant capital city as its backdrop and a purpose-built circuit designed to deliver close racing and dramatic moments, the countdown to the Madrid Grand Prix has officially begun. Formula 1 is preparing to welcome Madrid onto its global stage.
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