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via RacingNews365George Russell draws first blood in Madrid as drivers frustrated by traffic chaosGeorge Russell achieved the fastest time in the opening practice session of the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit, finishing with a time of 1:34.077. His teammate Kimi Antonelli followed closely in second place, as both Mercedes drivers showcased a strong start to the weekend.
Despite concerns about potential red flags due to the circuit's challenges, the session proceeded without major interruptions, aside from a brief yellow flag. Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton secured third and fourth positions, while Max Verstappen and Lando Norris rounded out the top six, highlighting the competitive nature of the session amidst traffic issues faced by several drivers.
Fri 11 Sep · 12:37 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell Leads Calm First Practice at Spanish Grand PrixGeorge Russell secured the fastest time in the first practice session for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix held at the Madring. The session was notably uneventful, with minimal incidents reported.+ 4 moreFri 11 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Cadillac Team Fined Twice for Sergio Perez's Pitlane SpeedingCadillac has received two fines following Sergio Perez's speeding violation in the pitlane during the first free practice session at the Spanish Grand Prix. The FIA stewards are conducting an investigation into the incident.+ 2 moreFri 11 Sep · 12:16 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell Leads First Practice at New Madring CircuitGeorge Russell achieved the fastest time in the inaugural Free Practice session for the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit. He was followed closely by his Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli, marking a strong start for the team.
via the-race.comKimi Antonelli and Max Verstappen Shine in Madring PracticesThe first day of Formula 1 practice at Madring featured notable performances from Kimi Antonelli and Max Verstappen. Antonelli topped the times in the second session, while Verstappen led the first practice.
via f1oversteer.comMadring designer pinpoints the corner he expects Max Verstappen to show his ‘nerves of steel’Jarno Zaffelli, the designer of the Madring circuit, has highlighted Turns 5 and 6 as a critical area where Max Verstappen is expected to showcase his skill. The circuit, which will host the Spanish Grand Prix for the next decade, has already posed challenges for drivers, as indicated by Carlos Sainz's comments on the difficulties faced during simulator testing.
Additionally, Turn 12, referred to as La Monumental, has gained attention due to its steep gradient and significant compression forces. Zaffelli mentioned that initial plans for a steeper banking at this corner were abandoned due to safety concerns from the FIA and Formula 1 regarding the capabilities of current cars.
Fri 11 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekAlex Albon warns ‘scary’ Madring layout will test teams’ hybrid deploymentAlex Albon has expressed concerns about the Madring circuit's layout, describing it as 'scary' for teams due to its flat-out corners that could complicate hybrid deployment calibrations during the Spanish Grand Prix weekend. He highlighted that the top teams might be able to maintain flat throttle through these corners, while midfield and backfield teams may struggle, impacting their performance and calibration efforts.
Additionally, Albon pointed out the challenges posed by the track's low-grip surface, which has been treated with high-pressure water jets to remove dust. He also discussed the banked Turn 12, noting its camber and the potential for drivers to slide up the track, which could lead to longer racing lines. Overall, Albon's insights reflect the complexities teams will face as they adapt to the unique characteristics of the Madring.
Fri 11 Sep · 10:30 UTCvia RacingNews365George Russell comes to 'crazy' realisation after 19 red flags in Madring testGeorge Russell reacted to the 19 red flags observed during the FIA F3 test at the Madring circuit, expressing that he expected more incidents based on his simulator experience. He highlighted the challenging nature of the track, which features tight walls and high-speed corners, making it a risky environment for drivers.
Russell drew comparisons between Madring and other circuits like Jeddah and Baku, emphasizing the difficulty of overtaking and the potential for accidents. He conveyed excitement about the upcoming challenges that the new circuit will present to drivers.Fri 11 Sep · 09:50 UTC
via grandprix.comInthraphuvasak unhurt in fiery Madring F2 crashDuring the opening practice session at Madring, Formula 2 driver Tasanapol Inthraphuvasak experienced a crash at Turn 19, resulting in his car catching fire. Fortunately, Inthraphuvasak was unharmed and managed to exit the vehicle without help. The incident led to the first red flag of the weekend as marshals worked to extinguish the fire and clear the track of oil from the damaged car.
The session was extended after the incident, allowing drivers to return with just over six minutes remaining. Nikola Tsolov emerged as the fastest driver in the session, clocking a time of 1:47.059. Other minor incidents occurred, including Laurens van Hoepen hitting the barrier at Turn 13, highlighting the challenges posed by the new circuit layout.
via thejudge13.comWilliams Madring tribute creates uncomfortable 9/11 Bin Laden linkWilliams Racing has introduced a special livery for the Spanish Grand Prix that pays homage to its 1981 FW07C car. This design, featuring the colors of the original car, has sparked controversy due to its historical sponsorship ties to the Bin Laden family, particularly as the unveiling coincides with the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The team clarified that the current cars do not carry any of the original sponsors' branding, focusing instead on celebrating their history in the sport.
The timing of the tribute has raised eyebrows, as it inadvertently links the team's past to a sensitive historical context. While Williams asserts that the intention behind the livery is purely celebratory, the association with the Bin Laden family has led to discussions about whether the team should have considered the implications of their choice during this significant anniversary. The situation highlights the complexities of revisiting historical designs without their original sponsorship context.
Fri 11 Sep · 09:45 UTC
via RacingNews365F2 Car Catches Fire During Inaugural Madrid Grand Prix WeekendA Formula 2 car caught fire during the first running of the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit. The incident led to a red flag being issued as safety concerns arose from the dramatic crash.+ 2 moreFri 11 Sep · 09:34 UTC
via RacingNews365Mercedes Unveils Major Upgrades Ahead of Spanish Grand PrixMercedes has announced a series of significant upgrades for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix at the Madring. These enhancements are part of the team's ongoing efforts to improve performance as they adapt to the new circuit.+ 3 moreFri 11 Sep · 09:20 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton Comments on Ferrari's Madring Filming Day BenefitsLewis Hamilton has stated that Ferrari gained minimal advantage from their recent filming day at the Madring track. The session involved running the 2026 car ahead of the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix.+ 1 moreFri 11 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via lightsoutblog.com2026 Spanish Grand Prix: Milestones and F1 Records Which Could Be BrokenThe 2026 Spanish Grand Prix marks a significant milestone as it will be the 1,163rd race in Formula 1 history and the 64th event held in Spain. This race will take place at the new Madring, which is the sixth venue to host the Spanish Grand Prix. Red Bull is set to make their 431st Grand Prix start, potentially overtaking Tyrrell for fifth place in the all-time constructor starts list.
Several records are on the line during this event, including Lewis Hamilton's pursuit of a seventh Spanish Grand Prix victory, which would set him apart from Michael Schumacher. Additionally, Max Verstappen aims to secure his 72nd win with Red Bull, equaling Schumacher's record for the most victories with a single constructor. The race also presents opportunities for other drivers to achieve personal milestones, such as podium finishes and pole positions.
via the-race.comGeorge Russell Leads First Practice at Inaugural Spanish Grand PrixGeorge Russell topped the first practice session at the new Madring circuit for the Spanish Grand Prix. Kimi Antonelli and Charles Leclerc followed closely in second and third place, respectively.
+ 3 moreThu 10 Sep · 20:15 UTC
via f1oversteer.comDavid Coulthard tells Liam Lawson what he ‘really needs’ to do with Red Bull at the MadringLiam Lawson will make his third appearance with Red Bull in 2026 as he stands in for the injured Isack Hadjar at the Spanish Grand ...Thu 10 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comVerstappen Reflects on Performance at Madrid's New F1 CircuitMax Verstappen evaluated his performance after the first day of practice at the Madring, where he finished sixth fastest. He acknowledged that Red Bull is still working to improve their pace ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix.+ 2 moreThu 10 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris confirms McLaren discussion to fix Monza mishapLando Norris revealed that McLaren discussed their strategy following a disappointing qualifying session at the Italian Grand Prix, where he ended up starting eighth. The team's performance was hindered by a lack of execution, particularly during the final runs in Q3, where Norris was unable to benefit from a slipstream due to his teammate Oscar Piastri's mistake.
Norris acknowledged the challenges of qualifying, especially at Monza, where track position is crucial. He expressed the need for McLaren to improve their approach to avoid similar issues in the future, particularly as they head to the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit.Thu 10 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via RacingNews365F1 Drivers Prepare for Challenges at New Madring CircuitThe Madring will host its inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix this weekend, presenting unique challenges for the drivers. Feedback from the grid highlights the circuit's complexity and the potential for mistakes as they navigate the new layout.Thu 10 Sep · 18:15 UTC
via Motorsport WeekPierre Gasly jokes wager on red flag chaos in Madring F1 debutPierre Gasly humorously suggested that the upcoming Formula 1 race in Madrid will likely see a Red Flag due to the challenging nature of the new Madring circuit. He highlighted the circuit's 20-plus corners and the steep banking of La Monumental, which could lead to a chaotic race, especially given the issues faced during the recent Formula 3 test.
Gasly emphasized the importance of understanding the track's unique characteristics, including its tricky braking zones and undulating layout. He believes that the weekend will be unpredictable, with drivers needing to be cautious to avoid mistakes that could have significant repercussions, similar to the challenges faced at Monaco.Thu 10 Sep · 17:00 UTCPage 2 of 7