Sainz addresses concerns about delays in the Madrid Grand Prix.

      Carlos Sainz has dismissed the ongoing rumors that Madrid's new Formula 1 circuit might miss its planned debut in 2026. The Williams driver recently completed initial demonstration laps at the new 'Madring' layout and expressed strong confidence that the construction is on track.

      "As an ambassador for the circuit, I maintain close contact with the team there, and they seem completely unfazed," Sainz mentioned. "Having already completed a few laps suggests we’re not far off from finishing," he added with a smile.

      Sainz characterized the hybrid street-permanent circuit as unusually ambitious by today's Formula 1 standards. "It’s quite different, honestly. There's a street section that transitions into a fully permanent circuit," he noted. "They’ve created what is likely one of the most unique corners I’ve ever encountered."

      The Spaniard was particularly taken by the striking banked section known as 'La Monumental'—a sharply inclined 180-degree turn that draws some inspiration from bullring architecture. "It’s quite steeply banked, but given our speed, we will likely exceed 200 kph all the way through," Sainz elaborated. "It’s an aggressive and intriguing curve. I think fans will really enjoy the circuit."

      However, Sainz acknowledged that he had not yet fully considered how Formula 1’s contentious 2026 energy-management regulations might impact the layout. "That's a good point, I hadn’t thought about that," he said when asked about potential ‘superclipping’ on the lengthy straights. "There are a few long straights that could lead to some clipping, if not superclipping."

      In the meantime, Marca reported this week that the project is advancing quickly in preparation for its debut in September. The newspaper stated that the final asphalt surface has already been applied to significant sections of the circuit, including the banking, while the runoff areas, curb foundations, and garage structures are approaching completion. The report also mentioned that the FIA is expected to receive the completed base infrastructure by May 31, adhering to the original schedule.