JULY 8, 2026

Ferrari set for first F1 laps at Madrid

Ferrari looks set to become the first Formula 1 team to run at Madrid's new Madring circuit ahead of this year's inaugural Spanish GP.

Spanish reports say the Maranello team will conduct a filming day on Thursday, although no official confirmation has yet been issued.

However, Madrid's city council has announced road closures around the circuit on July 9 due to construction work and a test, with activity scheduled from 7am until 10pm.

According to Marca, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will each complete laps of the new circuit within the 200-kilometre limit permitted for filming days.

The outing would give Ferrari an early opportunity to familiarise itself with the layout before Formula 1's first visit to Madring in September.

The reports also represent the latest indication that preparations for the new venue remain on schedule despite repeated suggestions the project could face delays.

A year and a half ago we announced an ambition, a challenge, something many considered impossible, even crazy, but now it's a reality, said Spanish GP communications chief Nira Juanco.

It's been hard work, months and months of fighting against doubts - not our own, but others. It hasn't been easy - even the weather put us all a bit on the ropes, but we are on time, and we will be on time.

IFEMA Madrid president Jose Vicente de los Mozos also hit back at critics of the project.

Getting here hasn't been easy, he said.

We've read and heard many biased news stories that sought to sow distrust and doubt about the project. We are proud of the work accomplished.

(GMM)