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Carlos Sainz Drives Madrid’s New F1 Circuit
New Delhi: Spanish Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz has become the first driver to complete laps around Madrid’s upcoming ‘Madring’ circuit, offering fans an early glimpse of the venue that will host the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix.
Driving a Ford Mustang GT around sections of the partially completed layout, the Williams driver took part in a demonstration event ahead of the track’s official Formula 1 debut on September 13, 2026. The run marked an important milestone for the project as construction continues in the Spanish capital.
The new Madring circuit, located in Madrid, is expected to become the primary home of the Spanish Grand Prix from next season, replacing the long-standing Barcelona venue.
The 5.4-kilometre track will feature 22 corners and combine public roads with a purpose-built racing section, creating a hybrid street circuit. Organisers are preparing the layout for FIA inspections in the coming months before the circuit receives final approval for Formula 1 competition.
Sainz, who also serves as an ambassador for the project, admitted the circuit felt faster and smoother than he initially expected.
According to the Spanish driver, the lap changes character significantly between sectors. The opening portion near the IFEMA exhibition centre features tighter corners and a traditional street-circuit feel, while the latter half becomes wider and quicker, designed specifically for modern Formula 1 machinery.
One of the most talked-about sections lies between Turns 2 and 4, where drivers are expected to remain flat-out for nearly one kilometre. The layout also includes elevation changes and blind braking zones that could test driver precision during race weekends.
A major highlight of the new venue is the banked Turn 12 corner known as ‘La Monumental’. The sweeping right-hander features 24 percent banking and stretches across approximately 550 metres, making it one of the most distinctive corners on the Formula 1 calendar.
Grandstands surrounding the section are expected to hold around 45,000 spectators, creating a stadium-style atmosphere during the race.
Sainz also believes the wider layout and larger braking zones could encourage more overtaking opportunities compared to many recent street circuits.
For the Madrid-born driver, racing in his hometown represents a special moment. He said Formula 1’s return to Madrid after more than four decades could further strengthen the city’s growing reputation as a major global sporting destination.
