FORMULA ONE’S Spanish Grand Prix could be moved to a stunning new circuit in Madrid.
Spain’s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya – which underwent a revamp ahead of the 2023 race – has hosted the event for the last 35 years.
But it appears a new track in Madrid is set to be introduced to the calendar in 2026.
Reports from Spanish outlet OK Diario claim F1 is set to announce the new “Formula 1 Madrid Grand Prix” after registering trademarks with the name.
F1 reporter Joe Saward said the announcement will see the Madrid circuit hold races for at least ten years from 2026.
Saward adds the race will take place on a semi-permanent track around the Ifema convention centre close to Barajas Airport and next to Real Madrid’s training ground Ciudad Real Madrid.
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The centre is located around 7km away from Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu stadium — which itself has undergone a face lift in recent months.
F1 chiefs have been looking at Madrid as a new host for some time.
Saward reports the race will be fully accessible by public transport including the city’s metro network, a move which would contrast the restricted viewing fans saw at the Las Vegas GP.
Madrid last hosted an F1 race at Jarama in 1981, with Barcelona hosting the country’s race since 1991.
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The Catalunya circuit’s deal runs until 2026 with Madrid and Barcelona set to initially both host races.
It is understood to be unlikely that the Barcelona track with continue to host Grands Prix beyond then.
Although F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has previously suggested there is a chance two Spanish races could stay on the calendar.
Valencia has previously hosted the European GP alongside the Catalunya race.
Speaking at the launch of an F1 exhibition in Madrid earlier this year, Domenicali said: “They are working to bring a race here and F1 is delighted to have so many contenders, because this way we become more and more popular.
“Two races in Spain of course is very difficult, so we are happy with Barcelona who have a contract and a strong relationship – but it is true that Madrid wants a race so we will see. All of this is good for F1.”
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has also hinted at this move, saying: “It is a matter of meeting around a table and negotiating what is best for F1, also on the commercial side.”
Asked about Spain hosting two races, he added: “I think so. We have to study the commercial part, but I am sure that Formula 1 will be doing that. And then it will work very well.”
It comes after Domenicali also suggested that F1 could have as many as 30 races over the course of a season.
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This season had 23 races and was a record in of itself, though the current Concorde agreement between teams and F1 maxes this number out to 24.
However, that deal only runs until 2025 and could pave the way for F1 to return to Africa and head to new venues.
Complete F1 2023 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix this year
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
