Nico Rosberg: Carlos Sainz should take some responsibility for the overtaking challenges at Madring

2016 Formula 1 champion Nico Rosberg believes Carlos Sainz must share some of the blame for the limited overtaking at the new Madring circuit, considering his role as the venue's ambassador.

The 2026 Spanish Grand Prix took place on a new semi-permanent layout surrounding the IFEMA exhibition centre in Madrid, departing from the traditional Barcelona-Catalunya circuit. However, following Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli's eighth victory of the season, the circuit's scarcity of overtaking chances was swiftly criticized for leading to monotonous racing.

In a post-race discussion on Sky Sports F1, Rosberg stressed the need for a redesign of the layout ahead of 2027.

“Carlos Sainz was the ambassador, so we need to hold him accountable,” Rosberg stated. “They have to reconsider the track design for next year and incorporate at least one viable overtaking spot. We require that on this track because it’s simply too challenging to pass.”

Rosberg highlighted McLaren’s Oscar Piastri having difficulties overtaking Alpine’s Franco Colapinto, even with a tyre advantage.

“It was quite shocking. Piastri on Colapinto, for instance. Piastri had fresh tyres and still couldn’t get by. He was significantly faster. It’s just incredibly tough to overtake,” he added.

Nico Rosberg, SKY Sport

Former Aston Martin strategist and Sky F1 analyst Bernie Collins also pointed out the absence of overtaking opportunities.

“When the circuit is fully designed, you should consult them and pose the questions,” Collins remarked when asked if drivers should have a greater say in new circuits. “But I don’t think it necessarily required a driver to highlight that at this moment, did it? We all arrived, examined the track, and thought, ‘This will be very challenging for overtaking.’ 

“Therefore, I believe something should have been done about it. Now they’ve been very open in stating they will implement changes moving forward. They are willing to make adjustments for the future. This isn’t a permanent track. So I hope one of those alterations will involve improving overtaking opportunities if possible.”

Photos from F1 Spanish GP - Sunday