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Madrid joins Formula 1 calendar as Spain set to host two grands prix in 2026
Spain will host two Formula One grands prix in 2026, with Madrid making its debut alongside the long-standing Barcelona race. The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) confirmed the calendar on Tuesday, adding Madrid as a key addition to the European leg of the season.
The Madrid Grand Prix is scheduled for 11-13 September and will conclude Formula One’s European segment before the championship moves to other continents. The new circuit, located around the IFEMA exhibition center, will feature both street and traditional track elements. However, final approval is still pending FIA homologation, meaning the circuit must meet the governing body’s standards before being officially confirmed.
Madrid’s entry comes with a shift in branding for the race in Montmeló, which will now be called the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix instead of the Spanish Grand Prix.
Madrid Grand Prix: Opportunities and controversies
The Madrid Formula One project is spearheaded by Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the regional president from the right-wing People’s Party (PP). Organizers project the event will generate €450 million annually, create 8,000 jobs, and attract over 112,000 spectators each year during its planned run from 2026 to 2035.
Despite these optimistic forecasts, the project has faced significant criticism. Environmental groups and opposition political parties have raised concerns over its ecological impact and alleged lack of financial transparency. Critics have questioned Ayuso’s claim that the project will come at "zero cost" to taxpayers, warning that public funds may ultimately be required to sustain the event.
The IFEMA trade fair authority has committed €137 million to the project, with Swiss firm Match Hospitality announced as a sponsor. However, the absence of additional confirmed sponsors has fueled doubts about the race’s long-term financial viability. These concerns are amplified by comparisons to the failed Valencia Grand Prix, which ran from 2008 to 2012 before collapsing amid financial scandal and the loss of €300 million in public funds.
A new era for Formula One
The 2026 Formula One season will feature 24 races, beginning in Australia at Melbourne’s Albert Park from 6-8 March and concluding in Abu Dhabi on 4-6 December. The calendar has been optimized to reduce travel, with Montreal in Canada now following Miami in May.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, described 2026 as a landmark season due to new regulations and the introduction of cars powered by 100% sustainable fuel. "We are excited to welcome Madrid to the calendar and to see major automotive brands like Audi, Cadillac, and Ford join the Formula 1 grid," Domenicali said.
With Madrid’s inclusion, Spain solidifies its position as a major player on the Formula One stage while fueling debates about the sustainability and financial management of large-scale sporting events.
