Max Verstappen has never been one to hold back. After qualifying for the Madrid Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit, the four-time world champion launched a scathing critique of the track's design, claiming it offers virtually no overtaking opportunities. "I still need to figure out a corner where to pass," he said bluntly in the press conference.
Madring, located within the IFEMA complex, has been under scrutiny since its inception. While F2 and F3 races have produced several crashes, chaos in F1 has been limited. Verstappen believes that while the circuit is entertaining over a single flying lap, it poses significant problems for racing.
The Main Issue: Poorly Designed Braking Zones
Verstappen pointed out that not only are the corners problematic, but the braking zones are also incorrectly designed. "For the braking zones, they need to learn that it should never be that you have to steer and combine that under braking. It doesn't allow any kind of overtaking," he explained. He stressed that if braking were done in a straight line, there would be an opportunity to pull alongside. But because many of Madring's braking zones require drivers to brake while turning in, that option disappears.
"Then there is only one line and that makes it very easy to defend as well," he added. When asked what exactly needs to change, Verstappen laughed: "Almost all the braking zones! If you give me the track map, I'll sort it out."
His comments echo those of Lando Norris, who previously said the extremely long pit lane has not been properly thought through. Although Norris admitted the thrill of a single lap at Madring is fun, he said it cannot be compared to Monaco.
Verstappen Willing to Provide Input on F1 Track Design
Verstappen isn't just criticizing; he's offering a solution. He is willing to provide input to the FIA and track designers to improve future circuits. "They can always ask me, 'What do you think of this layout?' I don't want to go into details now, because you have different track designers, but sometimes I..." he said, trailing off as the interview was cut short.
The Red Bull driver emphasized that input from drivers can greatly help in future track designs. "I think that input from the drivers on track designs can help a lot in the future," he said. This isn't the first time Verstappen has criticized new circuits; he is known for being vocal about safety and racing quality.
With the race approaching, the big question remains: will Madring deliver thrilling overtakes, or will it become a boring procession? Only time will tell, but Verstappen's criticism serves as a serious warning to organizers.
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