Sainz: Madring possesses the qualities of a hybrid circuit.

      Another troubling indication regarding the future of Imola's Formula 1 race has surfaced.

      Williams driver Carlos Sainz, originally from Madrid, returned to the Spanish capital last Friday to mark the beginning of construction on the new 'Madring' circuit. From next year, it will host a new Formula 1 race, and Sainz attended as an ambassador for the event.

      "I believe we are creating the character of a hybrid circuit," he stated, "featuring a street section with very close walls and a more open area, resembling a traditional European circuit."

      The ceremonial event in Madrid was also attended by Manuel Avino, the president of Spain’s automobile federation. He announced, "Fortunately, and God willing that everything goes smoothly, starting in 2026, Spain will be the only country in the world, aside from the United States, to host two Formula 1 races." Avino did not mention Italy, which currently hosts races at both Monza and Imola. However, Imola’s contract with F1 is set to expire at the end of 2025.

      F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali acknowledged earlier in April that a new deal for Imola seems unlikely. "It will become increasingly challenging to have two grands prix in the same country due to the growing interest in our sport," he remarked to Rai radio. "This current situation is unlikely to persist for a long time."

      Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc was in France over the weekend for the historic grand prix event at Paul Ricard, which was removed from the calendar in 2022. "It’s remarkable to see so many fans with such passion for Formula 1," he told local media. "It demonstrates how significant a French GP could be once more."