Charles Leclerc has offered his initial assessment of Madrid’s new Madring circuit, highlighting the unique challenge presented by its signature corner, La Monumental. The Ferrari driver stated that the 547-metre banked turn will ‘reward the brave’ when Formula 1 debuts in the Spanish capital this September.
Leclerc, alongside teammate Lewis Hamilton, completed laps of the 5.416-kilometre hybrid street circuit during a Ferrari filming day on July 9, 2026. This early running provided the Scuderia with initial data, despite the track still being under construction and the use of Pirelli demonstration tyres.
La Monumental, officially Turn 12, is a 270-degree right-hander featuring a 24% banking angle, the maximum permitted by the FIA. Drivers are expected to experience sustained 4G compression for approximately six seconds through this section.
The corner’s design includes a blind exit over a crest, adding to its complexity and demanding full commitment from drivers. Entry speeds into La Monumental are anticipated to reach up to 200 km/h for the 2026 F1 cars.
Leclerc described La Monumental as a ‘very, very special corner’ and believes it has the potential to become one of Formula 1’s most iconic turns. He noted the necessity for bravery, particularly during qualifying, where drivers will push the limits.
The Madring circuit, designed by Studio Dromo, combines public roads with purpose-built sections around the IFEMA Exhibition Centre. It features 22 corners, significant elevation changes, and two short tunnel sections.
Beyond La Monumental, the layout includes heavy braking zones at Turns 1, 5, 11, and 17, which are expected to provide overtaking opportunities. The circuit’s construction reached a milestone in March 2026 with the asphalting of La Monumental.
The Spanish Grand Prix will take place from September 11-13, 2026, marking Madrid’s return to the F1 calendar after 45 years. The Madring circuit has a capacity of 110,000 spectators, with potential for expansion.
Pirelli has indicated that tyre loads at Madring will be comparable to those experienced at Silverstone and Spa. The circuit aims to be a ‘spectacle circuit,’ drawing comparisons to venues like Miami and Las Vegas.
