Hamilton cautions about 'compression' at the new F1 circuit in Madrid.

      Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc provided the organizers with their initial detailed impressions after Ferrari became the first Formula 1 team to test out Madrid’s new grand prix circuit. The duo conducted a filming day last week in preparation for the Spanish GP’s inaugural event in September, with Madring general manager Luis Garcia Abad sharing several of their insights.

      Hamilton’s primary concern was related to one of the most dramatic aspects of the circuit. "He expressed concerns about compression," Garcia Abad noted. "I mentioned to him that the optimal solution to prevent compression would be to reduce speed a bit, which wouldn’t pose an issue."

      Leclerc, on the other hand, highlighted the challenges drivers will face during a qualifying lap. "He mentioned that qualifying will be incredible because drivers will be very close to the walls."

      Garcia Abad elaborated on the distinct features of the 5.4km, 22-corner semi-street circuit, including the 550-meter, 24 percent banked La Monumental corner. "As you enter the Monumental, with a 24 percent incline, you can’t go full throttle because you lose steering control at the completely blind exit with the Madrid skyline ahead."

      Despite the challenging design, Garcia Abad reported that Ferrari's feedback was favorable. "They liked it," he stated. "But it’s not a matter of whether they like it or not. The FIA has approved the circuit design, and from the outset, it was Formula 1 that crafted each of the track's 22 curves."

      IFEMA president Jose Vicente de los Mozos emphasized the significance of testing the venue prior to its Formula 1 debut. "It’s not obligatory, but we’ve requested it," he explained. He also noted that organizers aim to prevent issues similar to those encountered during the inaugural Las Vegas GP. "We need to handle things properly and learn from any mistakes we might make so that the second year can be even better."