Construction has officially commenced at the location of the new Madrid Grand Prix.

      "We have begun earlier than anticipated as well."

      Work has officially commenced at the location of Formula 1’s new race in the Spanish capital, set for 2026. Despite having a solid long-term contract and acquiring the 'Spanish GP' naming rights from Barcelona, uncertainty has persisted for months. Both F1 and the FIA have stated that Madrid is only confirmed for next year "subject to FIA circuit homologation." Earlier in June, Bild newspaper reported that "many doubt the street circuit will be ready in time for its intended debut." "If it doesn’t pan out, Imola is the primary alternative candidate." F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali also cautioned this month: "For 2026, Imola is our first backup. If for any reason a venue fails to deliver, we will return to Imola with our cars and drivers."

      On Thursday at the site of the new 'Madring' circuit, Spanish media gathered to observe the initial developments. The Spanish newspaper Marca reported, "Currently, there are 85 workers and about 50 machines, including trucks, excavators, and power trowels, on site." The workforce is expected to expand to nearly 500 in the coming period, it noted.

      Luis Garcia Abad, the general manager of the Madring project, informed EFE news agency on Thursday that the venue will be ready well ahead of the scheduled Spanish GP in mid-September 2026. "May 30," he stated when asked for the expected completion date. Garcia Abad, who was Fernando Alonso’s long-time manager, also mentioned that the final homologation of the track will take place during the week of the grand prix. He clarified that this is "standard procedure" and that "there will be two more official visits during the construction phase."

      Garcia Abad added, "It’s a complex project, involving around 70,000 square meters of asphalt. But if you compare it to other types of construction, like any road or highway, it won’t be that significant. We have begun earlier than we expected, too." He also hinted that the track surface might have a red hue instead of black. "We haven’t ruled out pigment," stated Garcia Abad. "We aim to use the most sustainable option. Red heats up less than black, but it also provides less grip. We’ll need to evaluate everything carefully."