Madrid Mayor Dismisses 2026 F1 Grand Prix Delay Rumors
Madrid's mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, has strongly refuted rumors suggesting a delay for the 2026 Formula 1 Grand Prix, affirming the event will proceed as scheduled. He stated that circuit construction is ahead of schedule, with key government officials backing these assurances. Madrid's return to the F1 calendar, taking over from Imola, is set for September 2026, marking a significant moment for the city after a four-decade absence.
Madrid mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida has emphatically confirmed that the city's Formula 1 Grand Prix will proceed as planned in 2026, shutting down recent speculation about construction delays.
Why it matters:
Rumors of a potential delay for Madrid's highly anticipated return to the F1 calendar had begun circulating, causing uncertainty among fans and stakeholders. The mayor's direct and confident dismissal of these claims aims to reassure all parties, reinforcing the city's commitment to hosting the event on schedule and establishing its place as a premier F1 destination.
The Details:
- Rumor Refutation: Martínez-Almeida stated, "I don't know where that news comes from, but the circuit is ahead of schedule foreseen in its execution and it goes perfectly." He also firmly reiterated, "on September 12 next year there will be Formula 1 in Madrid, which will be a real success."
- Government Assurance: Michelangelo García Martín, Minister of the Presidency, Justice and Local Administration of the Community of Madrid, echoed the mayor's sentiment, assuring citizens that "the works on the Madring Formula 1 circuit are going at a good pace, each and every one of the works that were planned are being carried out."
- Calendar Slot: Madrid is set to host the Grand Prix from September 11-13, 2026, immediately following the Italian Grand Prix. This marks Madrid's return to the F1 calendar after more than four decades, taking over from Imola, which will no longer host a race.
- Historical Context: The last F1 race in Madrid was held at Jarama in 1981, making this return a significant moment for Spanish motorsport.
What's next:
With official assurances from Madrid's leadership, the focus now shifts entirely to the successful completion of the circuit and infrastructure. The city aims to deliver one of the best Grands Prix on the calendar, positioning Madrid as a significant new fixture in the sport. All eyes will be on the construction progress as the 2026 season approaches, confirming Madrid's capacity to host a world-class event.