F1 Returns to Madrid After 45 Years as Madring Gets the Green Signal

Madrid's new Madring circuit has been declared ready to host its first-ever Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix on September 13, following two days of testing with Formula 3 cars.

The 5.4-kilometre circuit, located near Madrid's main airport, welcomed 30 drivers from 10 teams for Monday and Tuesday's sessions. The test gave organisers an opportunity to examine not only the performance of the new track but also its sporting, technical, medical, safety and coordination systems under real racing conditions.

Although the sessions were interrupted by nearly 20 stoppages, largely because of cars going off track, organisers said the overall test was successful and confirmed that the circuit was ready for Formula 1.

Madring is a hybrid circuit, combining sections of existing roads in the Spanish capital with purpose-built parts of the track. Drivers who experienced the layout offered an enthusiastic early verdict, with some comparing sections of the circuit to the famous street tracks of Monaco and Macau.

French driver Théophile Naël, racing for Van Amersfoort Racing, said he enjoyed the challenge of the new venue and the physical demands it placed on drivers.

Spanish driver Bruno del Pino described Madring as one of the most thrilling tracks on the calendar, saying the adrenaline remains high throughout every lap.

One of the circuit's biggest attractions will be “La Monumental,” a spectacular banked corner expected to become Madring's signature feature.

The Spanish Grand Prix will mark Formula 1's return to the Madrid region for the first time since 1981, when the Jarama circuit last hosted a race.

Madring has signed a long-term agreement with Formula 1 running through 2035, giving Madrid a new place on the global motorsport stage. After passing its first major on-track test, the countdown is now on for the circuit's historic F1 debut.