Max Verstappen warns of dangers at new Madring circuit ahead of Spanish Grand Prix
Max Verstappen has warned that Formula One’s new Madring circuit could be a “car killer” as drivers prepare for a chaotic Spanish Grand Prix weekend, reports BritPanorama.
The reigning world champion expressed concerns about the track’s unforgiving nature, where concrete walls leave little margin for error. Its unusual layout includes blind bends, aggressive kerbs, and a substantial banked corner through the middle sector, drawing comparisons to circuits in Jeddah and Baku.
During a two-day Formula Three test last month, the warning signs were evident, with 19 red flags issued, most stemming from crashes scattered across the circuit. “It’s a tough track,” Verstappen remarked. “It’s a little bit the same kind of sensation that I get sometimes around Jeddah in places,” he added, indicating the high-speed challenges posed by the layout.
When he was asked directly whether the Madring could damage cars, Verstappen conveyed a stark assessment. “It probably is a car killer from what I’ve seen so far,” he said. “You just need to try and stay out of the walls and try to get the best possible feeling in the car.” His comments reflect a heightened level of caution as teams adapt to a circuit none have raced on before.
Drivers will utilise Friday’s practice sessions to build confidence and understanding of the track’s limits. Carlos Sainz of Williams, who contributed to its design, believes the venue will present new challenges distinct from established circuits. “It looks like the track has character, that it’s charismatic, with a lot of different kinds of corners,” he noted.
With some sections likely to offer only one viable racing line, overtaking is anticipated to be a challenge, heightening the stakes for qualifying. Mercedes driver George Russell labelled the circuit as arguably the most risky on the calendar, noting the proximity of the walls that leaves no room for error.
Other drivers, including Alpine’s Pierre Gasly, echoed the sentiment regarding the potential for frequent stoppages. “The track layout is something I’ve never seen before,” he stated, pointing out the unconventional corners and significant banking. As championship leader Kimi Antonelli aims to maintain his substantial points lead, the weekend promises to be hectic, filled with potential disruptions and necessary caution.
