Madring has successfully completed another important test ahead of its Formula 1 debut, with the new Madrid circuit continuing to finalise preparations for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix. Less than 20 days before Formula 1 races at the venue for the first time, Formula 3 completed its latest official running, allowing organisers to test the circuit, operational procedures and safety systems under genuine track conditions.
After an opening day without any major complications, the final session produced the fastest lap of the two-day programme, with Campos Racing ending the test at the top of the timesheets. The event represents another significant step for Madring as Madrid prepares to join the 2026 Formula 1 calendar.
Madring preparations continue ahead of the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix
The circuit itself and the principal infrastructure required to hold the race are now complete, although several finishing touches remain before Formula 1 arrives. These include safety car signage, the podium and the installation of the starting lights.
The grandstands have already been completed, while work is continuing on several access routes, catering areas and parts of the pit complex. Some final installations are also still being completed, including screens and advertising barriers.
The Formula 3 running therefore provided more than an opportunity for drivers and teams to learn the new track. It also gave organisers a valuable chance to check procedures and identify any issues that can still be addressed before the Spanish Grand Prix weekend begins.
Formula 3 drivers give positive verdict on the Madring circuit
From a sporting perspective, the Formula 3 drivers were satisfied following the opening day of running. The new Madrid layout was considered challenging and enjoyable to drive, offering a useful early indication of how the circuit behaves with competitive single-seaters on track.
Some areas remain dusty, particularly in the northern section closest to construction work that is still taking place. The asphalt itself, however, received positive feedback.
Freddie Slater had been fastest on the first day with a lap of 1:50.343. Conditions improved on day two as more rubber was deposited on the racing line and the drivers became increasingly familiar with the circuit, allowing lap times to drop below the 1:50 barrier.
During the morning session, Campos Racing driver Ugo Ugochukwu recorded a 1:49.034, which ultimately remained the fastest lap of the entire two-day test. Freddie Slater went one tenth faster than Ugo Ugochukwu during the afternoon session, but his 1:49.685 was still slower than the American driver’s morning benchmark, leaving Ugo Ugochukwu and Campos Racing with the overall best time.
Red flags provide an important safety test for Madring
Red flags were an unwanted but prominent feature of the opening day, with the session interrupted nine times. Such stoppages are not unusual on a street or semi-street circuit where barriers are positioned close to the track, and none of the incidents resulted in serious consequences.
The first red flag on the second morning arrived early and was caused by Fernando Barrichello, again without significant consequences. While the interruptions disrupted the sporting programme, they also provided an important opportunity to test the circuit’s operational response.
The marshals are new to Madring, although many come from the staff of the Jarama Circuit and therefore already have extensive motorsport experience. Their work could be assessed repeatedly in realistic conditions as incidents occurred around the new venue.
The afternoon session brought further contact with the barriers and several more red flags. Nevertheless, the running provided further confirmation that Madring’s safety measures were responding as required during incidents on track.
Porsche Supercup also conducts noise test at Madring
Another test took place late on the first evening, when a brief Porsche Supercup run was organised using silencers in order to measure noise levels around the circuit.
The support category remains a candidate to join the Spanish Grand Prix programme in 2027, making the short run another useful part of the wider preparations surrounding Formula 1’s new Madrid venue.
With the main circuit infrastructure already finished and Formula 3 having now completed two days of competitive running, attention turns to the remaining details around the venue. Access areas, parts of the pit facilities and several final installations still require work, but Madring has now passed one of its most important practical tests before Formula 1 arrives for its first Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid.
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