SUMMARY
- The 2026 Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid raises concerns about traditional tracks among F1 enthusiasts.
- The surge in street circuits raises concerns about F1 losing its essence and diversity.
Quite recently, Madrid has been declared to be the host city for the F1 Spanish Grand Prix starting from 2026. This means that the traditional Barcelona race might be out of order anytime soon. However, several F1 enthusiasts took no time to reveal what they felt about the new venue. The recent developments in Formula 1 regarding the stark rise in street circuits are a matter of concern for fans.
Street circuits were once a distinctive feature while offering a unique set of challenges to drivers and teams. However, the scenario has evolved significantly, witnessing a consistent increase in the number of street races on the F1 calendar. Fernando Alonso lately voiced this concern, fearing that it might force him into retirement. The question that arises – why is this push for more street circuits by FIA?
F1 under mounting pressure as many circuits are out of contract
There is a grave concern for fans as their favorite tracks are running out of contract. Stefano Domenicali, CEO of F1, has discussed the shift in the sport’s approach to circuit contracts. As per the Italian boss, the change in strategy will require a transition from short/medium term to longer-term deals for tracks.
BREAKING: Monza and Imola have reportedly reached an agreement to continue in #Formula1 until 2030.
At the moment, both circuits have a contract with Formula 1 until 2025.
[via: @Gazzetta_it] #F1 #McLaren #BrazilGP #LasVegasGP pic.twitter.com/Y6HgBkBbPO
— McLaren F1 News 🏴🇦🇺 (@TheMcLarenZone) November 9, 2023
Domenicali stated, “If you look at the past, the renewals were two years, three years or five years maximum. Now all our new deals are going in the direction of being very long. And if they are short, there is a reason.” This new strategy puts more pressure on circuit organizations with expiring deals to negotiate extensions and secure spots on future calendars.
Monaco and Spa-Francorchamps have secured shorter-term extensions until 2025, while Imola, Mexico City, Las Vegas, Monza, and Zandvoort hold a chance for renewal next year. Countries like Australia, Bahrain, Qatar, Austin, and Hungary have been signed up with F1 and will remain until the 2030s.
Escalating concerns: Growing number of street circuits in F1
The 2024 schedule features seven street circuits: Saudi Arabia, Australia, Miami, Monaco, Azerbaijan, Singapore, and Las Vegas. The addition of Madrid in 2026 further fuels the trend. The shift towards street circuits is driven by their financial advantages over traditional tracks. These urban circuits, offering better accessibility within city limits, outshine tracks situated in remote areas.
Confirmation of the Madrid GP from 2026. 10 year contract.
“A decade of shows” says it all… 🙄 #F1 pic.twitter.com/2oDnTObkON
— Rob Myers (@RobLMyers) January 23, 2024
Fans attending races at conventional tracks often face inconvenience, needing to book hotels which might be far off. During the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Max Verstappen stressed on the problem, pointing out the fading essence of the F1 he grew up with. Fans also express concern about the similarity among street circuits diminishes the beauty and character of each track.
The inclusion of Madrid has triggered fans to an extent that it just might seem like a bad idea. IFEMA entertainment complex will join this list in 2026, aligning with Liberty Media’s goal to bring F1 to ‘destination cities’ globally, just like they did with Las Vegas.