MADRID: Home favourite Carlos Sainz believes Madrid’s upcoming Formula One circuit could set a new benchmark when it makes its debut next season. Speaking to reporters on Friday, the Madrid-born Williams driver expressed confidence that the 5.47km track, featuring 22 turns, could become “the best circuit in the world and the best event of the whole calendar.”
Sainz highlighted the layout’s unique hybrid character, blending tight street sections with a more open, high-speed area, as a major strength. “There will be 24 or 25 races, and I honestly think along with Mexico, Miami, Las Vegas that do it very well but sincerely I trust a lot in Madrid and I believe that Madrid can do better,” he added during a press conference where he also served as an event ambassador.
Construction of the circuit, set in Madrid’s northeast around the IFEMA exhibition centre, is ready to begin with paperwork and licences completed. Spanish engineering firm Acciona and France’s Eiffage have secured the contract, with the project expected to cost 83.2 million euros ($94.57 million) and be completed by May 2026.
The Madrid track is poised to eventually replace Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya as host of the Spanish Grand Prix, although both venues are set to feature on the calendar next season during a transition period.
