F1 – Spanish GP, Stefano Domenicali: “Madrid will be the pride of Europe”
Exactly 100 days remain until the debut of the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit in Madrid. Earlier this week, the FIA carried out an inspection as part of the homologation process, while construction work on the facilities and grandstands continues at an intense pace.
During a virtual meeting with Spanish media, Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed great enthusiasm for the project, highlighting that Madrid will become the first completely new addition to the calendar since the arrival of the Las Vegas Grand Prix in 2023.
Domenicali also moved to dismiss any lingering concerns about the event’s readiness. Speaking to the Spanish newspaper AS, he stated: “Madrid will happen. It will be ready. There are still many things to complete, but everything is under control on the promoter’s side.”
The Italian executive reiterated that, despite the significant amount of work still underway, the project remains firmly on track.
Madrid’s contribution to the calendar and comparison with other European circuits
When asked about Madrid’s added value compared to historic European venues such as Barcelona, Stefano Domenicali explained that the project has already had a positive impact on the sport.
“The idea of Madrid has been an incentive for all European circuits to improve their offering, not from a financial perspective, but in terms of the overall experience. You cannot take for granted that history automatically guarantees a future. History is important if you are prepared to invest in the future.”
He stressed that Madrid was not selected in opposition to Barcelona. Instead, its arrival has encouraged every circuit to raise its standards, helping even the Catalan venue continue to evolve and improve.
The circuit characteristics and its connection with the city
The new Madring circuit will measure 5.4 kilometres and feature a banked corner that is already expected to become one of the standout moments of the Formula 1 season.
The former Ferrari team boss highlighted the unique logistical advantages of the venue, which combines accessibility with a close connection to the city itself: “Until now, we haven’t had semi-permanent circuits with this kind of logistical setup, so close to both the airport and the city centre,” he explained.
He expects sponsors to take advantage of the location through a wide range of activities and fan experiences, but believes the track itself will be the main attraction.
“We are bringing Formula 1 to a circuit that will be spectacular and where there will be plenty of action on track. A new race always brings fresh energy.”
In a spontaneous moment during the interview, Stefano Domenicali also revealed a light-hearted detail about the event’s local flavour: “It will be a very Madrid-oriented event… I mean, very Madrileño! We will have both Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid involved, so we will remain completely neutral.”
The impact on Spanish motorsport and future generations
Domenicali believes Formula 1’s presence in Madrid until at least 2035 will help inspire future generations of Spanish racing talent: “Formula 1 is probably the second most popular sport in Spain after football in terms of visibility, audience and followers. We have two incredible drivers in Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso, but events like this will generate tremendous interest. From the grassroots level, more young drivers will have the opportunity to develop their careers and help Spain remain at the top.”
At the same time, he emphasised that the success of a Grand Prix does not depend entirely on having a local driver on the grid. As an example, he pointed to the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix, which sold out despite Sergio Perez no longer being part of the Formula 1 field.
The Dromo-Tilke dispute and the next steps
Asked about the dispute between Dromo, led by Jarno Zaffelli, and Tilke, which has since taken over a significant portion of the project and may eventually be resolved through legal channels, Domenicali chose not to become involved.
“I know there are discussions taking place, but we trust the promoter and support the decision they have made. It is not the first time something similar has happened with other promoters, and it will have no effect on the event. Everything is under control.”
The Madring circuit will be officially unveiled on June 16. In addition, a support event featuring junior categories is expected to take place in the weeks leading up to the Formula 1 weekend, most likely involving the Spanish Formula 4 championship. The aim will be to test the facilities, operational procedures and the work of the marshals before Formula 1 arrives.
With preparations entering their final phase, the countdown to Madrid’s Formula 1 debut continues.
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