Madrid gears up for its first Formula 1 street race in decades

The construction of a hybrid street circuit marks a new era for motorsport in Madrid.

Exciting developments for Formula 1 in Madrid

In a thrilling announcement, Madrid is on the brink of welcoming back Formula 1 after more than 40 years. The city has officially awarded a contract to a joint venture between Spanish construction firm ACCIONA and France’s Eiffage Construction to build a state-of-the-art hybrid street circuit. This 5.47 km track will be strategically located near Madrid’s Barajas airport, weaving around the iconic IFEMA fairgrounds. The excitement is palpable as fans and city officials alike anticipate the return of high-speed racing to the streets of Madrid.

Timeline and construction updates

Initially, the construction was slated to begin in April, but delays in the procurement process raised concerns about meeting the September 2026 debut deadline. However, recent developments indicate that the latest deadline for starting construction has been set for early May. Madrid’s mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, has assured the public that building permits are expected to be granted shortly, paving the way for construction to commence. “We are going to grant the licence and in principle we should be able to start in May for the F1 circuit to be able to host it for the 2026 season,” Almeida stated confidently.

A new chapter for motorsport in Spain

The return of Formula 1 to Madrid signifies a significant shift in the Spanish motorsport landscape. The city will take over the Spanish Grand Prix title from Barcelona, which is set to host its final race in 2026 unless a new contract is secured. This transition reflects a growing trend towards urban circuits in Formula 1, aligning with the sport’s vision for more accessible and engaging racing experiences. The excitement surrounding this project is not just about the race itself; it represents a revitalization of Madrid’s cultural and sporting identity.

Community engagement and anticipation

The local community is buzzing with anticipation as they prepare to embrace the thrill of Formula 1 racing. The prospect of witnessing world-class drivers navigate the streets of Madrid is a dream come true for many fans. Local businesses are also gearing up for the influx of visitors, with opportunities for sponsorships and partnerships on the horizon. The event promises to be a celebration of speed, culture, and community, uniting fans from all walks of life in their shared passion for motorsport.

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