Ferrari conducted a filming day at the new Madring circuit in Madrid on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc drove the SF-26 car during the session. This marks the first time a current Formula 1 car has run on the track ahead of its debut Grand Prix.
The Madring circuit is scheduled to host the Spanish Grand Prix in September this year, replacing the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The 5.416-kilometre track, a hybrid layout combining permanent sections with public roads, is located around the IFEMA Exhibition Centre.
Construction of the circuit has progressed significantly, with the track fully tarmacked and approved by the FIA as of June 2026. The venue features 22 corners, including a distinctive 550-meter banked corner with a 24% gradient.
Ferrari’s early running at the Madring circuit was facilitated by utilising a provision in Formula 1’s Sporting Regulations. This allows teams to conduct ‘Promotional Events,’ commonly known as filming days, under specific conditions.
These regulations permit teams two such events per season, with a maximum distance of 200 kilometres. Cars must use special demonstration tyres provided by Pirelli, rather than race-specification rubber. Ferrari had previously used one filming day at Monza in April.
The use of a filming day circumvents stricter ‘Testing of Previous Cars’ regulations. These rules typically prohibit running at new or heavily modified circuits that did not host an F1 event in the year prior to the championship.
This early track time provides Ferrari with a significant advantage. Hamilton and Leclerc gained real-world data and a direct feel for the circuit’s layout and surface characteristics. This information is crucial for simulator correlation.
Rival teams will not have the opportunity to drive the Madring circuit in a current F1 car until the opening practice sessions of the Spanish Grand Prix in September. Ferrari’s data acquisition allows for more precise preparation.
The SF-26 car was equipped with extensive sensors and aerodynamic rakes during the filming day. This allowed engineers to gather detailed information on air flow, ride height, and braking performance across the new track.
Reports initially suggested the Madring circuit promoter might have covered Ferrari’s costs for the event. This raised concerns regarding Formula 1’s cost cap regulations. However, Ferrari has reportedly denied any such financial arrangement.
Hamilton, who joined Ferrari for the 2025 season, is currently in his second year with the Scuderia. Leclerc also holds a long-term contract with the Italian team, ensuring stability in their driver lineup.
The successful completion of Ferrari’s filming day represents a key milestone for the Madring circuit. It signifies another step in its preparations to host its inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix later this year.
