Spanish Grand Prix Organisers Ready to Modify Madrid Circuit After Driver Criticism

Organisers of the Spanish Grand Prix say they are prepared to alter the new Madrid circuit after widespread criticism of its first Formula 1 race weekend.

Several drivers said the layout made overtaking almost impossible, with Williams’ Alex Albon describing the race as “pretty boring” and Audi’s Gabriel Bortoleto joking he “almost fell asleep”.

While the track was praised for its one‑lap challenge, world champion Lando Norris said parts of the layout were “useless” and that it was “not a great racetrack”.

He argued that sections such as Turns 18 and 19 should be removed entirely in favour of a longer straight leading into a hairpin to improve racing.

Race winner Kimi Antonelli echoed the concerns, saying the current design “doesn’t create overtaking opportunities” and discourages drivers from attempting moves because “80% of the time you might have a contact”.

Teams Praise Venue But Call For Madrid Circuit Tweaks

Despite the racing issues, Formula 1 team bosses were impressed by the overall event at the IFEMA exhibition centre. Ferrari principal Frédéric Vasseur said the weekend was “mega”, praising the infrastructure and the welcome from the city.

He added that Madrid had “more latitude… than Monaco” to make changes and that organisers were already open to adjustments.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff agreed, calling it “one of the best” first‑time events he had seen.

He compared the circuit to a “mini Macau or a mini Monaco”, but stressed the need to refine the layout to encourage overtaking.

Wolff said he had spoken with the circuit’s CEO, who was “totally open‑minded” about redesigning sections for next year.

Organisers Prepared to Act

Fans also criticised access, visibility and readiness of facilities, highlighting the tight timeframe organisers faced.

Madring managing director Luis García Abad said the FIA had already outlined ways to improve the layout and confirmed the venue would be “open” to changes.

“If we can improve something, we will do it,” he said.

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