F1 returns to Madrid after 45 years! The queen of motorsport is back in the Spanish capital
After a 45-year hiatus from F1 racing in the Madrid area, the queen of motorsport is officially returning to the Spanish capital! From September 11–13, 2026, the world’s best drivers will compete for points for the first time at the brand-new Madring circuit.
The last time F1 cars raced near the capital was in 1981 at the Circuito del Jarama, where Gilles Villeneuve, driving for Ferrari, triumphed in a memorable race. Now Madrid is opening a whole new chapter with a long-term contract covering the years 2026–2035. Interestingly, Spain is hosting F1 twice this season—the traditional Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix took place in June, and Madrid wraps up the European leg of the calendar.
What makes the Madring track unique?
Length and layout: The track is 5.47 km long and consists of 22 turns, seamlessly connecting the permanent sections with the street sections in the area of the IFEMA exhibition halls and the Valdebebas district.
The Spectacular La Monumental: The most distinctive feature is Turn 12—a massive, sharply contoured curve (with a gradient of up to 24% / approx. 13.5°), named after Spanish bullrings.
Excellent logistics: The facility is located just about 5 minutes from Madrid-Barajas Airport, with a metro and commuter rail station right at the entrances to the track.
Race Weekend Schedule (Polish/Local Time)
Friday, September 11:
- 1:30 p.m. – 1st Practice (FP1)
- 5:00 p.m. – 2nd Practice Session (FP2)
Saturday, September 12:
- 12:30 p.m. – 3rd Practice Session (FP3)
- 4:00 p.m. – Qualifying
Sunday, September 13:
- 3:00 p.m. – Grand Prix Race
- 2026 Madrid Grand Prix – A Practical Mini-Guide for Fans
How do I get to the track?
The most convenient options are the pink metro line (Line 8—Feria de Madrid station, right across from the entrance) and the CercanÃas commuter train (lines C-1 and C-10, Valdebebas stop).
Where to Find a Place to Stay?
Hotels in the Barajas and IFEMA areas sell out the fastest. The ChamartÃn or Salamanca neighborhoods are great alternatives, as they’re less than half an hour away by public transportation.
What else is there to see while you're there?
It’s worth combining a racing weekend with a tour of the heart of Madrid: a stroll through Retiro Park, tapas at the Mercado de San Miguel, or an evening visit to Plaza Mayor and Gran VÃa.
