Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon have both urged modifications to the Madring circuit layout ahead of the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix. The new street track in the heart of Madrid dazzled during qualifying, but the Williams duo believe certain sections need rethinking before Sunday's race.
Albon revealed that discussions in the drivers' briefing have already touched on potential improvements. “I think we need to revisit this track a little bit,” he told media including Motorsport Week. “Turn five in particular, where drivers were running side by side in the chicane and then complaining about being re-passed. That corner needs the most work because it’s not an overtaking track.”
The London-born driver also pointed to the chaotic F3 and F2 races as evidence that the corner design needs an overhaul to prevent races from turning into a shambles.
Sainz, the local hero, acknowledged the track is not perfect. He believes every street circuit inevitably goes through iterations and improvements. “For sure, the track will have some improvements going forward,” Sainz said. “Every F1 track we visit for the first time gets iterations. Look at Baku, especially street tracks. The organisers need to be open-minded to driver suggestions.”
His former Toro Rosso teammate, Max Verstappen, also suggested layout changes, citing the 2026 engines as a mismatch for the current design. Sainz hopes the organisers will listen. “We will suggest changes and see how much flexibility there is. For our first Grand Prix, it’s going really well. All the drivers are enjoying it. We just need to make sure we also have a good race track, not only a good qualifying track.”
Sainz will start the Spanish GP from 20th on the grid after receiving a three-place grid drop for impeding Valtteri Bottas in Q1. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic of a competitive showing in front of his home crowd.
With the circuit still fresh, drivers hope Madring can quickly adapt to the demands of racing. Changes may not happen overnight, but pressure from the drivers could accelerate the evaluation process.
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