Max Verstappen discusses potential improvements for the new Madrid F1 circuit: "If they provide me with the track layout..."

Although the Formula 2 and Formula 3 events at the IFEMA complex in Madrid have seen multiple incidents, the turmoil in Formula 1 has, as of now, been relatively contained.

Nonetheless, drivers expressed their discontent following the qualifying session in the Spanish capital.
While the circuit is deemed entertaining for a single flying lap – with polesitter Lando Norris noting that the excitement is not quite on par with Monaco – the race itself is expected to present significant challenges.

"I still need to figure out where to overtake," Max Verstappen stated right at the start of the press briefing.

"They did a commendable job with the tarmac, although in certain areas it’s already a bit too bumpy for a new track. But as I mentioned earlier, the corners do not allow for overtaking."

"In terms of braking zones, they need to understand that it should never be necessary to steer while braking. This setup limits any overtaking potential. Therefore, I believe the track design could be improved. I also think that input from drivers regarding track designs would be beneficial in the future."

After the press conference, Verstappen engaged with the Dutch media in the paddock, coinciding with the initiation of the F3 sprint race. The four-time world champion and the journalists observed the start together, after which Verstappen directed his focus to the assembled media.

"Well, now we can stop watching, as everyone is just following each other," he remarked, reiterating the lack of overtaking chances. Shortly after, a crash occurred, but that was beside the point.

Verstappen believes that the braking zones have been designed poorly, making it nearly impossible to position the car next to competitors

The Red Bull racer emphasizes that it’s not just the corners but also the braking zones at the new addition to the F1 circuit that are flawed. If braking occurred in a straight line, drivers would have the chance to position their cars beside others. However, many braking zones at the Madring necessitate braking while cornering, eliminating that possibility.

"This results in a single racing line, making it very straightforward to defend," Verstappen elaborated when questioned by Motorsport.com about the braking zones.

When asked what changes would enhance the racing experience, the Dutchman chuckled: "Almost all the braking zones! If you give me the track map, I’ll fix it."

On a more serious note, Verstappen mentioned that he would indeed be open to doing just that: collaborating with the FIA and track designers to identify potential improvements.

"They can always approach me, ‘What do you think of this layout?’ I don't want to delve into specifics now, as track designers vary, but I sometimes discuss certain opinions and circuits with someone. Ultimately, a driver has a solid understanding of what’s needed or how a good corner should appear."

"There are also commendable examples, such as Austin. Racing there is enjoyable. Certain corners are spacious enough. At least you can attempt an overtaking maneuver, and even if it doesn’t succeed immediately, you can still contest the corner exit. There are plenty of examples of how to execute it properly."

Like Norris, Verstappen also believes that the pitlane in Madrid is excessively long

According to Verstappen, the drivers were not consulted for feedback on the new Madring beforehand, noting that this is a rare occurrence.

"In Jeddah, we were able to adjust a few elements, but that should really be done beforehand, before the track is constructed."

In addition to the layout, another concern in Madrid is the notably lengthy pitlane. It is essentially divided into two sections due to an IFEMA exhibition hall interrupting the pit boxes. Norris had previously criticized this in the press conference, and Verstappen concurred.

"Yes, we've already discussed this with the FIA, and they recognized our concerns. It's impractical and hasn't been logically considered," Verstappen commented.

This seems to represent a missed opportunity, particularly as tire degradation has been notably high thus far. Typically, this would lead to extra pit stops, but due to the lengthy pitlane and the critical nature of track position, teams are likely to aim to limit their pit stops on Sunday.

Verstappen intended to take the banked corner aggressively, but states that energy management restricts him from doing so

Battery management causes frustration for Verstappen in Madrid

When considering all these elements, they do not bode well for an exhilarating race – apart from any possible chaos or incidents. The drivers found qualifying to be more enjoyable, although Verstappen points out that the limitations of the 2026 power units have again come to light in Madrid.

"Given the conditions and the characteristics of these cars, this qualifying was fairly acceptable. It's just that I want to navigate that banked corner flat-out, but if I do, I end up losing more time on the subsequent straight.

"This means you have to ease off the throttle, wait a bit to recharge the battery, and then you’ll have more speed later on. It’s similar in Turns 18 and 19. You have to lift there as well, because if you go full throttle, you won't have any battery left afterwards."

All of these factors combined imply that Verstappen has not fully enjoyed the Madring experience so far, although he does see potential for improvement in the coming years.

"If they can perhaps modify the circuit in a few areas, then absolutely. Look, I'm not really a fan of street circuits, but some are worse on the calendar."