F1 drivers cite lack of overtaking and safety concerns at Madrid's inaugural Grand Prix

The inaugural Spanish Grand Prix on the new Madring circuit drew mixed reactions from Formula 1 drivers. While many praised the venue’s location and atmosphere, several highlighted the track’s design flaws that made the race feel uneventful.

Drivers noted a lack of tyre degradation and minimal graining, which reduced strategic variation. Esteban Ocon said the race felt “like 120% from as soon as we pitted to the end,” and suggested that a Friday race could have improved the spectacle.

The layout itself attracted the strongest criticism. Max Verstappen described the opening chicane as offering little space to pass, and Lando Norris questioned the overall design, calling it “mint” sarcastically. Turn 5-6 was singled out as too narrow, with high kerbs and a bumpy entry that limited overtaking. Carlos Sainz warned that the limited visibility on several left-hand sections raised safety concerns, comparing them to the challenges seen in Jeddah and Baku.

Drivers proposed specific modifications. George Russell said the circuit lacks clear overtaking zones after the longest straight, while Norris recommended removing turns 18-19 and widening the approach to turn 20, creating a larger hairpin similar to Austin’s Turn 1. Valtteri Bottas echoed the need for better sightlines in sectors 2 and 3, noting that walls could be widened. Alex Albon urged a review of the chicane where drivers were forced side-by-side, and Gabriel Bortoleto questioned the inclusion of the Turn 5-6 chicane altogether.

Some drivers also expressed a broader preference for permanent circuits over street layouts. Verstappen and Fernando Alonso both said they favour traditional tracks, citing the difficulty of extracting performance on narrow, unpredictable street sections.

The FIA and circuit organisers are reportedly reviewing the feedback as they plan the next iteration of the Spanish Grand Prix, with potential layout changes under consideration.