In Madrid, the countdown to the first race has begun.

      The first Formula 1 race at the circuit being built in Madrid is scheduled for 13 September 2026, and yesterday its organizers ceremonially began the countdown to it.

      On Saturday afternoon at Puerta del Sol, the central square of the Spanish capital, a button was pressed amid a large crowd and the countdown started on an electronic board. Of course, all this took place to music performed by an orchestra and speeches by officials; in particular, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, president of the Community of Madrid, said: "This will be the best Grand Prix on the calendar."

      The event took place at the entrance to Sol metro station, although the circuit is being built in a completely different part of Madrid, closer to its northeastern outskirts and relatively near the capital's airport.

      The future circuit has been named MadRing; the lap will be 5,460 metres long and will feature 22 turns. It will be the venue for the Spanish Grand Prix for the next decade.

      "It isn't starting now; it started a long time ago, because a project like this requires enormous effort, and although only 365 days remain until our Grand Prix, I have the feeling as if it should take place tomorrow," Díaz Ayuso added.