Motorsports
Date: September 11, 2026 - September 13, 2026

The Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix 2026 marks the beginning of a new chapter as Madrid makes its debut on the Formula 1 calendar. After decades at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Spain’s premier motorsport event moves to the brand-new Madring, a purpose-built circuit combining permanent racing sections with public roads.

As one of the most anticipated additions to the 2026 Formula 1 season, the Spanish Grand Prix introduces a completely new challenge for teams and drivers. With no previous race data available, preparation, adaptability, and strategy are expected to play a greater role than ever during the inaugural event.

The Circuit

The Madring becomes Formula 1’s newest venue and the first circuit in history to host the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid.

  • Length: 5.416 km
  • Laps: 57
  • Total race distance: 308.524 km
  • First Formula 1 Grand Prix: 2026

Unlike traditional street circuits, Madring combines purpose-built racing sections with public roads, creating a layout that blends the characteristics of a permanent circuit with the close barriers and atmosphere of a city venue.

The track features 22 corners, several long acceleration zones where Formula 1 cars are expected to exceed 340 km/h, significant elevation changes, and one of its defining features, La Monumental, a spectacular half-kilometre banked corner that is set to become the longest banked turn on the Formula 1 calendar.

With no historical data to rely on, teams will face a unique engineering challenge throughout the weekend as they search for the optimal setup on a circuit making its Formula 1 debut.

Schedule highlights

September 11

  • Practice 1: 14:30 – 15:30
  • Practice 2: 18:00 – 19:00

September 12

  • Practice 3: 13:30 – 14:30
  • Qualifying: 17:00 – 18:00

September 13

  • Race: 16:00

A New Era for the Spanish Grand Prix

The 2026 edition represents one of the biggest changes to the Formula 1 calendar in recent years. Madrid replaces Barcelona as the host city, introducing an entirely new circuit that promises high speeds, technical sections, and multiple overtaking opportunities.

Because no Formula 1 race has previously been held at Madring, every session throughout the weekend will provide valuable information for teams, making practice particularly important as drivers learn braking points, tyre behaviour, and racing lines.