SUMMARY
- F1's move of the Spanish Grand Prix to Madrid sparked fan disapproval, particularly due to the shift towards more street circuits.
- Fans' reactions on social media reveal concerns about potential complications and technical issues with street circuits in city centers.
It has been made obvious by the fans that street circuits are not their cup of tea. Yet, F1 went on to make a bold move with their latest arrangement to shift the Spanish Grand Prix to the city of Madrid from Barcelona. The 10-year deal has cast doubt on Barcelona’s future in the sport. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, a long-standing host since 1991, is losing its hold on the event.
F1’s initial announcement did not refer to the current venue, leaving Barcelona in a limbo situation. Barcelona authorities are currently in talks about the future, considering the possibility of a second race in the nation. However, the apparent scenario seems to be unfavorable for the fans who despise the possibility of another classic circuit, as observed with Suzuka, being out of the calendar.
Fans react to the Madrid GP decision of F1
As Spain explores the idea of hosting two races, akin to Italy and the USA, F1 fans shared contrasting opinions on social media. Some questioned the inclusion of another street circuit, while others speculated about the potential departure from the iconic Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona.
A fan who goes by the username (@t1me1srunning) wrote, “Liberty Media really ruining this sport, soo schön we will have 50% street circuits” on X.
Such kind of bitter reaction from fans might hinder the viewership of the sport as well as the number of attendees. A circuit erupted amidst the hustle and bustle of cities can lead to many complications. This was witnessed during the Las Vegas Grand Prix where a technical error disrupted the practice session with the manhole lid.
Another fan (@NeilEvansRocks) wrote, “Outrageous, a custom circuit with great weather and access replaced by a zoom around an industrial estate containing an exhibition center and an airport on the very outskirts of Madrid…in summer as those 40c days Madrid gets will be a farce for drivers.” The X user rightfully pointed out the technical errors behind this abrupt move.
Unveiling the features of the new circuit at Madrid
Madrid’s new circuit is a state-of-the-art 5.47km track with a mix of street and non-street segments. It surrounds the IFEMA fairgrounds and convention center in the northeastern segment of the city. The track boasts 20 corners and aims for a lap time of 1 minute and 32 seconds, featuring a high-quality “premium” paddock building.
🗣️ | Stefano Domenicali and Mohammed Ben Sulayem on Madrid returning to F1 for a 10-year deal
“Madrid is an incredible city with amazing sporting and cultural heritage, and today’s announcement begins an exciting new chapter for F1 in Spain.”
“It truly epitomises F1’s vision to… pic.twitter.com/K8mrw6jZVI
— RBR News 🇳🇱🇲🇽 (@redbulletin) January 23, 2024
With convenient public transportation access, the venue’s starting capacity is 110,000, set to rise to 140,000 within the first half of the contract. However, according to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, “Madrid is an incredible city with amazing sporting and cultural heritage.” He further added, “It truly epitomizes Formula 1’s vision to create a multi-day spectacle of sport and entertainment.”
Similar to any other Grand Prix event, this circuit too will offer VIP hospitality and entertainment areas, as a part of the race experience.