Madrid's New F1 Circuit Named 'Madring' as Sainz Completes Demo Run

Madrid's future Formula 1 circuit, set to host the Spanish Grand Prix from 2026, has officially been named 'Madring'. The reveal came as Spanish driver Carlos Sainz completed a high-profile demo run on sections of the planned track layout. The demonstration marked a significant step towards Madrid taking over the Spanish Grand Prix slot from the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, which has held the event since 1991. Formula 1 confirmed last June that the Spanish capital would host the race for a decade, beginning in 2026. It will be the first time F1 has raced near Madrid since the event was held at the Jarama circuit on the city's outskirts in 1981. The new 5.4-kilometer (3.4-mile) 'Madring' circuit is being constructed around the IFEMA exhibition halls near Madrid’s main airport. The layout incorporates a blend of existing city roads and purpose-built track sections, promising a unique challenge and spectator experience. The name itself, 'Madring', is a portmanteau of 'Madrid' and 'ring', a term commonly associated with racing circuits, and signifies Madrid's position as the first major European capital city to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix. As an official ambassador for the Madring project, Carlos Sainz was chosen to perform the inaugural demo laps. Piloting a Williams FW45 car, Sainz drove on Saturday across parts of the circuit that will form the backdrop for future Grand Prix events. Organizers have indicated that the arrival of F1 will transform the city, with extensive F1-themed activities and entertainment planned to immerse the entire region in the sport before, during, and after the race weekend. This demo run underscores the progress being made on the Madring project and highlights the anticipation building for Formula 1's return to the heart of Spain in 2026. The transition to a dynamic, semi-permanent street circuit in a major urban center represents a shift in the sport's approach to venue selection, promising a vibrant new chapter for the Spanish Grand Prix.