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via grandprix.comCadillac pays twice for Perez pit-lane speedingDuring the opening practice session for the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madrid circuit, Cadillac faced financial penalties due to Sergio Perez exceeding the pit-lane speed limit on two occasions. The first infraction saw Perez clock in at 53.9 mph, resulting in a fine of approximately $810, while the second infraction, where he reached 60.1 mph, incurred a fine of about $1,160. This brought Cadillac's total fines to around $1,970, marking a challenging start for the team at the new venue.
The penalties were issued under Article B1.6.3a.i of the FIA Formula 1 regulations and were classified as team fines, meaning they did not affect Perez's sporting penalties for the weekend. Despite the financial setbacks, Perez's performance in the session was subpar, finishing 21st and only ahead of his teammate Valtteri Bottas. The incident highlights the challenges teams face with pit-lane management, especially at a circuit with a long pit lane like Madring./GettyImages-2294552833.webp)
via Formula1.comHow drivers used the virtual world to prepare for the MadringFormula 1 drivers are extensively using simulators to prepare for the new Madring track ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix. With only a couple of drivers having experienced the venue before, the rest of the grid has been logging thousands of laps in driver-in-the-loop simulators to familiarize themselves with the 22 turns and unique challenges of the track. The complexity of managing energy deployment in 2026 makes these simulations even more critical for drivers, especially as they adapt to a new racing environment.
While simulators provide valuable insights into track rhythm and corner sequences, drivers acknowledge that they cannot fully replicate the real-world sensations of speed and grip. As rubber builds up on the track throughout the weekend, grip levels will change, adding to the challenge. Experienced drivers like Fernando Alonso appreciate the learning process, while newcomers like Oscar Piastri find the simulator a fun way to push limits without the risk of crashing. Ultimately, the combination of simulation and real-world experience will be crucial as they tackle the Madring for the first time.
Fri 11 Sep · 15:04 UTC/16x9%20single%20image%20-%202026-09-11T121422.901.webp)
via Formula1.comteams share impressions after Spanish Grand Prix practiceTeams and drivers provided feedback following the initial practice session for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix. The session took place at the Madrid circuit, allowing teams to assess their performance ahead of the race.Fri 11 Sep · 15:04 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Russell tops first practice in Madrid as Hamilton frustrates other driversIn the first practice session for the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit, George Russell achieved the fastest time, leading a Mercedes one-two with teammate Kimi Antonelli. Russell's time was 1:34.077, while Antonelli was 0.286 seconds slower. Charles Leclerc managed to secure third place despite recovering from a recent crash, while Lewis Hamilton faced criticism for blocking other drivers during the session.
The tight confines of the Madring circuit led to traffic issues, with Hamilton being called out by several drivers, including Arvid Lindblad and Carlos Sainz, for impeding their flying laps. Despite these challenges, all 22 drivers completed the session without major incidents, indicating a competitive weekend ahead with Mercedes and Ferrari expected to contend for the top positions.
Fri 11 Sep · 15:04 UTC
via gpfans.comChannel 4 F1 highlights today: How to watch the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix FREE in the UKThe 2026 Spanish Grand Prix is set to be held at the newly constructed Madring circuit, featuring 22 corners and a notable banked curve called La Monumental. Channel 4 will provide free coverage of the race in the UK, with highlights scheduled to air at 10:15 PM local time on the same day.
Lando Norris will start the race from pole position, closely followed by championship leader Kimi Antonelli. Lewis Hamilton, aiming to recover from a poor performance at Monza, will begin the race in fourth place. Viewers can also catch the highlights on Channel 4's on-demand service if they miss the live broadcast.
Sat 12 Sep · 09:57 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc’s instant radio message on Lewis Hamilton moment at Madring proves Ferrari’s changeDuring Free Practice One at the inaugural Madring, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton secured third and fourth places, respectively, while George Russell led the session. Following a challenging performance at Monza, Ferrari showed signs of improvement as both drivers managed to avoid conflicts on track, which was a relief for team principal Fred Vasseur.
Leclerc demonstrated a notable change in behavior by calmly addressing a near-miss with Hamilton over the radio, suggesting a more diplomatic approach within the team. This incident has raised questions about whether this newfound professionalism will persist as the competition intensifies during the race weekend.
Fri 11 Sep · 13:30 UTC
via F1iMax Verstappen tops Spanish Grand Prix Free Practice 1Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing recorded the fastest time in Free Practice 1 for the Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The session, which took place on Friday, saw Verstappen set a time of 1:13.555.
Fri 11 Sep · 12:43 UTC
via Motorsport WeekGeorge Russell leads in first practice at Spanish GPGeorge Russell achieved a strong performance by finishing in the top five during both FP1 and FP2 at the Spanish Grand Prix. The session allowed drivers to familiarize themselves with the complexities of the Madring circuit.
+ 1 moreFri 11 Sep · 12:38 UTC
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 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 UTC
via 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 RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton questions Ferrari's Madring test 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 the-race.comEverything we learned on day one at F1's Spanish GPFallout from Ferrari's Monza disaster and intrigue (or perhaps trepidation) over the Madring track headline our learnings from day one in Spain
Thu 10 Sep · 20:15 UTC
via Formula1.comHow Verstappen and Lawson rate Red Bull's chances in MadridMax Verstappen and Liam Lawson evaluated Red Bull Racing's prospects for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, which will be held at the new Madring circuit. Both drivers acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the high-speed street layout, which could lead to unpredictable outcomes and potentially allow Red Bull to secure their first victory of the 2026 season.
Verstappen emphasized the importance of practice sessions for gaining confidence in the car, while Lawson noted his ongoing adaptation to the team's 2026 vehicle. Both drivers expressed the need for time to learn the new track and improve their performance, with Lawson specifically mentioning the challenges of racing in a car that is not tailored to his preferences.Thu 10 Sep · 18:27 UTC
via RacingNews365Piastri and Lawson caution on Madring circuit risksThe 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 Formula1.comtips for safer betting at the Spanish Grand PrixAs the Spanish Grand Prix approaches, bettors are advised to be cautious. Experts have highlighted common mistakes to avoid and provided strategies for making informed in-race betting decisions.Thu 10 Sep · 17:52 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 8 of 11