Work almost ready to start on new Formula 1 circuit in Madrid
Between 2026 and 2035, the F1 Grand Prix is set to be held in the Spanish capital
Madrid is gearing up to host the Formula 1 Grand Prix from 2026 to 2035, and the clock is ticking to get the new circuit ready. Construction is set to begin "ideally" in April, though delays could push the start date to May.
The project has a tight deadline, with construction expected to take 14 months. Ifema, the consortium overseeing the project, emphasises that work must start by May to meet the deadline. The goal is to have the infrastructure completed by summer 2026, in time for the Grand Prix scheduled for early September.
The deadline for submitting bids was January 10 and several leading Spanish construction companies have thrown their hats in the ring to secure the 137 million euro contract. Ifema expects to announce the winning bidder before April.
The 5,474-metre, 20-turn semi-urban circuit will be built in Valdebebas, north of the city, and will include both permanent and temporary infrastructure. The permanent structures will remain in place, while the temporary areas will be dismantled after the event.
Madrid is hoping for a major economic boost once the Grand Prix moves next year. The preliminary study estimates that the F1 event will attract around 110,000 spectators, with 85,000 visitors from outside Madrid, including 30% international tourists.
This influx is expected to generate annual revenues of 450 million euros and boost the GDP of the Community by 0.2% and the capital's accounts by 0.4%. The Ministry of Culture, Sport and Tourism stresses that the project will not involve public funding.
Despite the challenges, Ifema remains confident that the circuit will be ready in time for the 2026 Grand Prix.
Image: Formula 1
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