The Madring circuit, host of the 2026 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, has faced significant criticism following its inaugural race. Concerns primarily revolve around the lack of overtaking opportunities, which led to a processional event. The circuit’s own ambassador, Carlos Sainz, has openly voiced his dissatisfaction with the layout.
Sainz, a Williams driver, described the track as ‘poor’ in his post-race debrief. He also raised concerns regarding safety on circuits of this design. Sainz indicated that the FIA’s direction for new circuits appears to favour layouts that present such issues.
Former Formula 1 champion and Sky Sports F1 pundit Nico Rosberg directly attributed some of the blame to Sainz. Rosberg highlighted Sainz’s ambassadorial role for the Madring circuit. He insisted that the track layout requires immediate revisions for the 2027 season.
Rosberg pointed to instances during the race where drivers struggled to make passes. He cited Oscar Piastri’s inability to overtake Franco Colapinto, despite Piastri having a tyre advantage. This demonstrated the inherent difficulty in executing overtakes on the new Madrid layout.
Other drivers also echoed these sentiments. Reigning world champion Lando Norris questioned the design’s approval and suggested removing Turns 18 and 19. Race winner Kimi Antonelli stated that attempted overtakes risk contact 80% of the time.
The technical characteristics contributing to the problem include several combined corners where drivers must brake and steer simultaneously. This allows the defending car to easily cover the racing line. The Turn 5/6 chicane, intended as a primary overtaking spot, proved ineffective due to its tight entry.
McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella also called for modifications to the circuit. Stella noted that a significant lap-time difference is required to attempt an overtake. He explained that while the straight might be long enough, cars cannot enter the corner together.
‘What F1, we’d like to review, is there’s some modifications required in order to introduce an overtaking possibility. At the moment the straight may be long enough, but there’s absolutely no way the two cars can enter the corner together. It’s basically impossible to attempt overtaking.’
The criticism extended beyond the paddock, with Spain’s Transport Minister Oscar Puente labelling the event ‘a complete disaster’. Puente compared the Madring to ‘Monaco 2, but faster’, describing the race as a ‘train of cars from start to finish’.
In response to the widespread feedback, Madring officials are planning changes in three key areas for the 2027 season. These revisions aim to improve overtaking opportunities. Discussions are underway with the FIA, drivers, and teams to finalise the modifications.
Proposed changes include widening the entry to the Turn 5/6 chicane and tightening Turn 13 to create a heavier braking zone. Additionally, widening the track around Turn 20 is under consideration. These adjustments seek to transform the circuit into a more competitive racing venue.
Despite the on-track issues, the event was logistically successful, managing a large number of fans. The facilities and the challenge of a single qualifying lap were generally praised.
