Lewis Hamilton has identified a compression issue at the new Madring circuit following a recent filming day with Ferrari. The seven-time world champion completed laps at the venue, set to host the Spanish Grand Prix in September, alongside teammate Charles Leclerc. Ferrari utilised one of its two allocated filming days for 2026 to gather initial data on the 5.416-kilometre layout.
During the session on Thursday, July 9, Hamilton reported concerns regarding compression at certain points on the track. Madring general manager Luis Garcia Abad acknowledged Hamilton’s feedback, suggesting that a slightly reduced speed would mitigate the issue.
The Madring circuit, a 22-corner semi-street layout, has drawn criticism for several design elements. Onboard footage from the filming day highlighted the track’s narrow sections, particularly at the pit exit.
High levels of undulation also contribute to blind spots in braking zones and tight corners. Some parts of the circuit measure as little as 8.5 metres wide, comparable to the narrowest sections of Baku.
Concerns have been raised about the potential for limited overtaking opportunities. The circuit’s switchback nature and minimal runoff areas suggest a singular racing line through many corners.
Turn 5, identified as a primary overtaking zone, is immediately followed by a tight chicane, which could neutralise any successful move. Additionally, Turns 14 and 15 are medium-fast corners that are expected to generate significant dirty air, hindering attempts into Turn 17.
The circuit features a 550-metre, 24 per cent banked corner known as ‘La Monumental’. This section presents a blind exit, adding to the challenge for drivers.
Charles Leclerc offered a different perspective, noting that qualifying at the Madring circuit would be ‘tremendous’ due to the proximity of the walls.
Despite the driver feedback, Garcia Abad stated that the circuit design has received FIA approval. Formula 1 itself was involved in the development of each of the 22 corners.
The Madring circuit is still undergoing construction, but organisers remain confident it will be ready for its debut race scheduled for September 11-13, 2026.
The circuit’s design has faced public scrutiny, with its release as downloadable content for the official F1 game in June 2026 drawing criticism for being uninspiring.
Councillor David Escude of Barcelona has also voiced thinly veiled criticism of the new Madrid venue. He suggested the Madring lacks support from drivers, following Barcelona’s demotion from hosting the official Spanish Grand Prix title.
