F1 drivers criticise Spanish Grand Prix track, promising changes ahead
F1 drivers have expressed dissatisfaction with the new Madrid circuit used for the Spanish Grand Prix, prompting organisers to confirm that modifications will be implemented. The drivers highlighted the limited overtaking opportunities and conveyed their concerns about the track’s layout, reports BritPanorama.
Williams’ Alex Albon described the experience as “pretty boring,” while reigning world champion Lando Norris referred to one section of the track as “useless.” Their remarks mirror a broader sentiment among competitors regarding the circuit’s design.
While team principals acknowledged the quality of the facilities, they reiterated the need for adjustments to enhance competitive racing at the Madring circuit. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff praised the initial race as one of the best temporary circuits he has encountered but recognised the challenge of creating a layout that facilitates overtaking.
Wolff remarked on the ongoing discussions with the circuit’s management about next year’s race, highlighting the potential for improvements in the track layout to assist drivers in making overtakes. Kimi Antonelli, who won the race from P2 on the grid, concurred that while the track excels in qualifying, it does not promote overtaking during the Grand Prix.
“It definitely doesn’t create overtaking opportunities and it doesn’t push you to try and make a move because 80 per cent of the time you might have a contact,” Antonelli stated. Norris elaborated, advocating for the removal of certain turns to enhance the track’s competitive aspects, stating, “They should get rid of [turns] 18, 19 – useless. Just have more of a straight into a hairpin.”
Despite the initial complaints, both drivers acknowledged the circuit holds potential for improvement. Wolff suggested the design could evolve into a more exciting venue with adjustments. He expressed enthusiasm about returning next year if enhancements are made, noting, “There’s a lot of opportunity. They can make it into a track that’s good for racing.”
The managing director of the Madring, Luis Garcia Abad, confirmed an openness to revising the track layout based on feedback from the FIA and drivers. He emphasised the commitment to making improvements ahead of the next race, stating, “We have the space, we have a venue, we have the facilities, we have the capacity to do it. I’m sure that FOM, FIA and ourselves, we will try. If we can improve something, we will do it.”
As the future of the Madring circuit unfolds, one thing is clear: the quest for an engaging race experience remains paramount, reminding us of the delicate balance between innovation and tradition within motorsport.
