F1 is currently hosting the Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on the outskirts of Barcelona, and has a contract in place with the promoters until 2026.
But Madrid has now thrown its hat into the ring as a potential future grand prix host city after writing to F1 CEO and chairman Stefano Domenicali to express interest in hosting a race.
Enrique Lopez, minister for the Community of Madrid, sent a letter to Domenicali earlier this week expressing the Spanish capital’s commitment to a grand prix project.
“It is with pleasure that I write to you on behalf of the Government of the Community of Madrid to express our interest in the development of a Formula 1 Grand Prix in Madrid,” Lopez wrote.
“I believe that the holding in Madrid of a motor racing event, which is one of the most exciting sporting phenomena of our time, would be a success for all the professionals, institutions and companies involved in the development of Formula 1. .
“Of course, it would also be a satisfaction for the whole region and its citizens. This is why the Government of the Community of Madrid has the greatest interest in making it possible.
“In short, I would like to confirm our commitment to you and to this project, as well as our willingness to sign the appropriate agreements to promote the race and provide a great sporting and entertainment spectacle.
“We are ready to work with you and your team to bring Formula 1 to Madrid.”
Carlos Sainz and Audi held a demo event on the streets of Madrid in 2021
Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool
Madrid’s expression of interest comes after F1 warned promoters of the Spanish Grand Prix to address its ‘unacceptable’ traffic and organizational issues after a number of problems emerged during the Barcelona race in May.
Over 300,000 fans flocked to Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya over the race weekend, but the track was ill-prepared to handle such large numbers.
F1 is currently experiencing a boom in interest from potential new markets and cities. Next year’s calendar is set to add events in South Africa, Qatar and Las Vegas, reaching the limit of 24 races allowed under the Concorde agreement.
