"Significant risk" and potential for "mayhem" - competitors share their thoughts on F1’s latest Madring circuit
The Madring circuit for the Spanish Grand Prix has garnered positive feedback from numerous top Formula 1 drivers who lauded its demanding layout, although opinions are not universally favorable.
After testing the 5.4km circuit on simulators, drivers anticipated one of the most formidable weekends of the season on a track that merges the harsh characteristics of a street circuit with a mix of medium to high-speed corners. However, nothing compares to the actual experience, and following two one-hour practice sessions, where drivers were notably cautious about the limited runoff areas, initial assessments are emerging about F1's latest venue.
"Honestly, it's tougher than some circuits," remarked Oscar Piastri, who concluded the day in fifth place, as McLaren faced challenges in performance against competitors. "There are numerous sections where you’re not just skimming the walls; you’re rather maneuvering towards them and then needing to steer clear. It makes things quite tricky. Everyone is still finding their pace, but once you hit a good rhythm over a lap, it’s quite enjoyable."
Aside from an FP2 incident involving the speedy Arvid Lindblad from Racing Bulls, the day’s F1 activities proceeded without significant issues. The circuit’s combined braking zones presented challenges as drivers were cautious to avoid lock-ups, while tire degradation, fluctuating grip levels, and traffic emerged as major concerns.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc commented: "It was thrilling to drive on the Madrid circuit today. It’s a demanding street track, which tends to be the kind I enjoy, and this one is no exception. I was pleasantly surprised by the level of grip already present, especially considering this is a completely new track with minimal rubber down so far."
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
With team-mate Kimi Antonelli leading the timesheets, George Russell's practice day reinforced his belief that the Madring is a "very high risk circuit," though he expressed concerns about overtaking being "very difficult," a sentiment echoed by many in the paddock.
The most positive remarks came from Madrid local Sergio Perez, who had little to celebrate regarding the performance of his Cadillac machine but was enthusiastic about the Madring both on and off the track. "Yeah, really cool track, really nice venue," the Mexican expressed. "Really glad to be here in Madrid. I definitely think this is going to become the best race in Europe.
"Tomorrow's qualifying is going to be chaotic, and obviously, the race on Sunday will be very hectic, so a lot can happen. I’m genuinely looking forward to it, and as a team, we just need to ensure we execute a perfect weekend."
However, not everyone shares Perez's excitement. Max Verstappen has never been particularly fond of street circuits, and the characteristics of Madring have not shifted his stance.
"Yeah, I don’t know. I’m not a fan of street circuits, and that’s never going to change," the four-time world champion stated. "I will always prefer racing on tracks like Spa. I mean, they’ve done an excellent job with the setup, but I’m just not a fan of street circuits."
Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin
While the Madring doesn’t particularly strain F1 2026's energy-depleted power units, the rapidly changing track conditions are complicating energy management for drivers and teams alike. This challenge was notably felt by Fernando Alonso in the Honda-powered Aston Martin, who bounced back from a clutch issue to finish the latter half of FP2.
"It’s always going to be tricky to get the tire temperature right and manage the battery state of charge by the end of the lap," the Spaniard explained. "Sometimes, adjusting your driving style in the final corners seems to make us particularly sensitive with the Honda power unit."
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