Madring reaches major milestone as current F1 car hits the track for the first time

Madring has reached a significant milestone in its preparations for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix after hosting a current Formula 1 car on track for the very first time.

Ferrari completed an official filming day at the new Madrid circuit on Wednesday, becoming the first team to run a current-generation F1 car at the venue. The Scuderia covered the maximum permitted 200 kilometres, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton both taking turns behind the wheel of the SF-26.

The day was about more than just Ferrari's running. It also provided circuit organisers with their first opportunity to test the venue under conditions similar to a Formula 1 race weekend, with the team operating its usual equipment, procedures and trackside logistics.

No major issues were reported during the event, marking another encouraging step in the circuit's development. However, construction work around the venue is still ongoing, with grandstands, fan areas and other infrastructure continuing to take shape ahead of the inaugural race.

The successful filming day represents another key checkpoint for Madring as it enters the final phase of preparations before welcoming Formula 1 for the Spanish Grand Prix on September 11–13.