After more than 4 decades, the biggest competition in motorsports is returning to Madrid. Madrid is set to host its Formula 1 Grand Prix and will organize the Spanish Grand Prix for 10 years from 2026 to 2035.
As Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, has said, Madrid is an incredible city with amazing sporting and cultural heritage, and today’s announcement begins an exciting new chapter for F1 in Spain.
The Formula 1 GP in Madrid aims to become a major highlight on the international racing circuit. The recently formalized long-term contract provides the necessary horizon to ensure a return on investments and the economic viability of the project.
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Madrid Grand Prix
A Cutting-edge Layout
The new urban circuit, pending FIA approval, will utilize the roadways of IFEMA Madrid fairgrounds, both from the current venue and the future ones in Valdebebas, along with 1.5 km of public roads.
The Madrid Grand Prix will feature a 5.47-kilometer track, including 20 turns, 8 elevated sections, 2 tunnels, 4 overtaking points, a spectacular curve, and speeds reaching up to 300 kilometers per hour. Cars are expected to complete a qualifying lap in approximately 1 minute and 32 seconds.
It is a layout that features everything from fast sweeps to tight chicanes, and lengthy straights to short bursts of the throttle, offering a varied experience for those behind the wheel.
It will be a cutting-edge layout designed to deliver thrilling moments and sections crafted to impress fans and enhance television production.
2 Circuits in Spain
Starting in 2026, the Spanish capital will host the Spanish Grand Prix, coexisting with the current Grand Prix in Montmeló for at least the first year.
During the event presentation, Domenicali mentioned that the return of Formula 1 to Madrid doesn’t rule out the possibility of maintaining the Barcelona Grand Prix.
Innovative Infrastructure
The Madrid GP facilities will be equipped with the latest technology and safety, communication, and climate control systems, elevating the standards of the experience for both participants and spectators.
Unprecedented spaces in the competition will be created, such as a covered and climate-controlled paddock, along with extensive areas for fan experience activations.
Sustainability Commitment
Madrid’s new F1 circuit will be based around the IFEMA Madrid exhibition center in the Barajas district, just a stone’s throw away from the Adolfo Suarez airport and only 16 kilometers from the city center.
Madrid Grand Prix will be the most accessible by public transportation in the entire competition and will be carbon-neutral, aligning completely with sustainability policies. It is estimated that 90% of fans will be able to travel to the paddock via public transport, while those staying in local accommodation will be a short walk away from the venue.
Moreover, all the IFEMA buildings use 100% certified renewable energy and any temporary structures built for the race will be constructed using recyclable materials. Formula 1 is fully committed to reaching Net Zero Carbon by 2030 and Madrid shares the vision to make the Spanish Grand Prix one of the most accessible and sustainable F1 events on the calendar.
Project Profitability
The new Spanish Grand Prix will also prioritize the fan experience. It is estimated to start with 110,000 spectators, reaching over 140,000 by the fifth year.
The annual revenue for Madrid from hosting the Grand Prix is expected to be around 450 million euros. Additionally, nearly 10,000 jobs directly linked to the Grand Prix celebration will be created.
Spanish Formula 1 Drivers
The last 20 years of Formula 1 history cannot be understood without Spain. The emergence of Fernando Alonso and the recent success of Carlos Sainz have made the country synonymous with triumphs in the premier category of motorsports.
In the current Formula 1 grid, there are two well-known Spanish drivers: Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz.
Fernando Alonso
His major achievements include winning the Formula 1 World Championship twice consecutively in 2005 and 2006.
He has competed for teams like Renault, Minardi, Ferrari, Alpine, and McLaren, and is a member of the FIA Hall of Fame. Currently driving for Aston Martin, Alonso has 32 victories and 99 podium finishes to his name.
Carlos Sainz
Sainz debuted in Formula 1 in 2015 with the Toro Rosso team, where he raced for three seasons. In 2017, he joined the Renault team, achieving a notable fourth place in the 2017 Singapore Grand Prix.
Sainz then moved to McLaren until 2021 when he joined Scuderia Ferrari. In 2022, the Spanish driver secured his first Formula 1 victory at the British Grand Prix.
Where to stay
There is a wide range of accommodations near IFEMA, and here are 3 of the best options:
Pullman Madrid Airport & Feria Hotel
Pullman Madrid Airport & Feria Hotel is located next to the IFEMA Exhibition Center, only a block away from the metro station connecting the city center in 20 minutes.
The hotel is functional and nice, and the rooms are comfortable and quiet. Pullman Hotel also features an outdoor pool open from June to September and guests have free access to the fitness center.
AC Hotel by Marriott Madrid Feria
I love AC Hotels by Marriott as they offer elegant and modern hotels that always guarantee a high-quality standard. AC Hotel Madrid Feria is the best lodging option near IFEMA and the hotel provides on weekdays a free shuttle to the IFEMA Congress Center.
Rooms are elegant, functional, clean, and comfortable, with parquet floors and smart décor.
Melia Avenida America Hotel & Conference Center
Meliá Avenida América Hotel & Conference Center is located near IFEMA. As the name suggests, this is more than a typical hotel, as it also offers a 5,000 m² Convention Center and 32 multi-purpose event rooms where you can organize meetings, presentations, or social events.
Meliá also helps you stay in shape with a fully equipped gym with cardio and weights machines and relax in the remarkable wellness center. Rooms are spacious, bright, modern, and recently renovated with a sophisticated design.
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