Champions Travel

Madrid to join the Formula 1 calendar from 2026 - Everything you need to know

Exciting news for Formula 1 fans! Starting from 2026, Madrid will take the reins from Barcelona as the host city for the Spanish Grand Prix, thanks to an agreement with IFEMA MADRID. Together, they're bringing a thrilling, brand-new circuit to the heart of the Spanish capital, combining both street and non-street sections for an unforgettable racing experience.

Crafted around the IFEMA exhibition centre as its hub, this 5.47km circuit, pending FIA approval and final design tweaks, promises 20 corners and a projected qualifying lap time of just 1 minute 32 seconds.

Anticipate an incredible atmosphere, as the circuit aims to host more than 110,000 fans daily, offering a mix of grandstand, general admission, and VIP hospitality options. With plans after that to boost the circuit's capacity to a whopping 140,000 fans per day, positioning Madrid as one of the largest venues on the F1 calendar.

Conveniently located a mere five minutes from the Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suarez airport, the Spanish Grand Prix is on track to become one of the most accessible races on the F1 calendar. Commuting to the circuit is a breeze, with easy access via Metro, train, and city lines, ensuring a seamless journey for all attendees. According to official statements, an impressive 90% of fans will enjoy convenient travel options to the race via public transport.

This groundbreaking deal, extending until 2035, marks Madrid's return as the host of the country's grand prix, a position it hasn't held since 1981 when the Jarama circuit, located 20 miles north of the capital, last hosted the event. Previously held at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya since 1991, and Jerez in Andalucia from 1986-1990, the Spanish Grand Prix boasts a rich history, dating back to its inaugural race in 1913, making it one of the oldest races in the Formula 1 calendar.

Stefano Domenicali, the President and CEO of Formula 1, expresses the excitement, stating, “Madrid is an incredible city with amazing sporting and cultural heritage, and today’s announcement begins an exciting new chapter for F1 in Spain.”

Get ready for a new era in Spanish Grand Prix history in the vibrant city of Madrid!

Register your interest in the Madrid Grand Prix HERE.

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