Madrid GP sells 50,000 tickets despite political doubts.

      High Early Demand

      The organizers of Madrid's upcoming Formula 1 race report that over 50,000 tickets have already been sold for the city's first race scheduled for September 2026, with a quarter of the purchasers coming from abroad, primarily from the UK, US, and Mexico. Deputy Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport Luis Martin informed the Madrid Assembly that this robust early demand "highlights the strategic opportunity this new circuit presents to enhance tourism, invigorate the economy, and raise the region's international profile."

      The 'Madring' street circuit in Valdebebas is currently 90 percent through its earthworks, with completion anticipated by May 2026. The track will be located just 16km from the city center and a five-minute drive from the airport. Officials project the event will generate EUR 450 million annually and create over 8,000 jobs, although political opponents continue to raise concerns about the project's expenses and transparency. Martin criticized the "ongoing scrutiny" from PSOE, Spain's primary center-left party, and Mas Madrid, the city's progressive green-left movement, noting that the Spanish government still allocates millions in subsidies to support Barcelona's existing Grand Prix.