Madrid’s new Formula 1 circuit is set to undergo changes in three key areas for 2027 after overtaking proved extremely difficult during its first Grand Prix. The Madring layout produced few realistic passing opportunities, prompting organisers to address one of the most obvious weaknesses to emerge from the inaugural race weekend.
“You just have to put the car in the middle of the track.” That was how Max Verstappen summed up how easy it had been to defend second place from Lando Norris. Passing in Madrid proved as difficult as, if not even more difficult than, at Monaco, reinforcing the criticism surrounding the Madring circuit layout after its Formula 1 debut.
Madrid F1 circuit changes to target three overtaking areas
According to The Race, modifications are planned in no fewer than three areas of Madring in an attempt to make overtaking easier for the 2027 edition.
The most obvious candidate is the Turn 5/6 chicane at the end of the long straight that follows the opening chicane and the right-hand corner leading onto the acceleration zone. Despite appearing to offer one of the circuit’s clearest opportunities for an attack, the configuration used for the 2026 race made overtaking particularly difficult.
The problems were consistent with concerns raised before Formula 1 raced at the venue, when several drivers had already highlighted the challenges created by Madring’s layout and narrow sections.
Turn 13 to change after La Monumental
The other two areas being considered for modifications are particularly interesting. Turn 13, immediately after La Monumental, is expected to become slower. In practical terms, a more substantial braking zone would be introduced, potentially giving a driver who exits Madring’s signature banked corner close behind another car a genuine opportunity to attack.
La Monumental is one of the defining features of the new Madrid circuit, but the race demonstrated that following another car closely through a spectacular section is of limited value if there is no suitable braking zone immediately afterwards in which to attempt a pass.
Turn 20 barrier change could encourage overtaking attempts
Turn 20 is also expected to be modified, particularly around the barrier on the exit of the corner. The aim is to give drivers greater confidence to attempt an overtaking move instead of being discouraged by the limited margin available if an attack does not work perfectly.
The proposed alterations therefore target three different parts of the lap: the Turn 5/6 chicane, Turn 13 after La Monumental and Turn 20. Previous winners, track configurations and other venue data can be explored through the F1 Circuit Records & Statistics section as Formula 1’s newest circuits build their own history.
Whether the changes are enough to transform the racing remains to be seen, but the objective is clear. After overtaking proved one of the biggest problems during Madring’s inaugural Grand Prix, organisers are preparing to modify the circuit in an effort to make the 2027 Madrid race more competitive and entertaining.
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