The Spanish Grand Prix returns to Madrid’s new Madring circuit from 11-13 September 2026, with George Russell setting the pace in first practice as Formula 1 prepares for its debut on the 22-turn street track.
George Russell set the fastest time in Formula 1’s first practice session at Madrid’s Madring circuit, clocking a 1m 34.077s to lead Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. The British driver’s time came amid mixed conditions, with Esteban Ocon noting the grip is high
as drivers tested the 5.414km street circuit for the first time. The session saw multiple technical issues, including Sergio Perez’s steering wheel change and Yuki Tsunoda’s power steering failure, but Russell’s performance highlighted his competitiveness ahead of the 57-lap race.
Madring Circuit Ready for F1 Debut
Formula 3 will serve as a dress rehearsal for the F1 event, testing operations and safety protocols ahead of the Grand Prix. Juanco called the circuit ready to host a race right now, though final touches like the Fan Zone will be completed by late August. The event’s scale is already evident, with almost everything
sold out, though some hospitality tickets remain available. Organizers emphasized strict crowd management, warning against private vehicles due to parking shortages.
Championship Implications and Driver Reactions
Championship leader Kimi Antonelli secured a win at the Italian Grand Prix, but his form at Madring remains to be seen. Antonelli finished second in practice, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc struggled with the soft tyre, ending nearly five tenths behind the leader. Leclerc’s performance contrasted with his teammate Lewis Hamilton, who posted a 1m 34.620s on the medium tyre. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, meanwhile, grappled with tyre graining, while Liam Lawson used the soft compound to jump up to fourth inside the final 30 minutes with his Red Bull.
Driver reactions to the Madring circuit were mixed. Antonelli acknowledged the track’s difficulty. Verstappen, meanwhile, hinted at the track’s challenges.
What’s Next for the Spanish Grand Prix?
The Spanish Grand Prix will mark Madrid’s debut on the F1 calendar, with the Madring circuit set to host the event for at least a decade. The race will be preceded by Formula 3 testing in late August, offering a final opportunity to refine operations. For drivers, the track’s unique challenges could shape the weekend’s outcomes. As Juanco said, Come back next week and you’ll be amazed,
reflecting the circuit’s rapid development and the excitement surrounding its F1 debut.
With the championship battle heating up, the Madring race could prove pivotal. Antonelli’s recent win in Monza has solidified his lead, but rivals like Verstappen and Leclerc will look to capitalize on any setbacks. For fans, the event promises a blend of historic significance and cutting-edge racing, as Madrid joins the global F1 circuit for the first time.
