Sainz expects ‘fun’ but ‘intense’ new track as Spanish GP returns to Madrid to sold-out crowd

Carlos Sainz anticipates the new hybrid track at the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid to be an intense challenge. The track, built using a mix of existing roads and purpose-built sections, is set to make its Formula 1 debut this weekend. Sainz, who is originally from Madrid, described the circuit as a mix of the challenging tracks of Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia, and compared it to the exciting nature of those races.

The 5.4-kilometer (3.3-mile) layout features 22 corners, high-speed zones, heavy-braking areas, and other demanding sections, which will reduce the margin for error during the race. The Spanish Grand Prix is returning to Madrid for the first time in 45 years after originally taking place at the Jarama circuit in 1981. Tickets for the three-day event have sold out, with an estimated 350,000 spectators expected, primarily from Spain and other countries.