F1 to taste El Clasico rivalry after Madrid reportedly wins bid to host GP

The Formula One calendar for the upcoming season has been meticulously planned and revealed. Building upon the success of the concluded 2023 season, organizers are planning another thrilling set of races, promising fans an exciting spectacle with a notable twist.

In a bid to add another ingredient of excitement to the racing season, a signification change has been introduced for the upcoming years of the sport: the addition of the Madrid Grand Prix to the Formula One calendar.

F1 calendar to include Madrid GP from 2026 onwards

In recent years, discussions have been made regarding the inclusion of the Madrid Grand Prix in the Formula One calendar, with Spain exploring the possibility of a race track around the Valdebaas area. Despite these talks, the Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya has reaffirmed its commitment to F1 by extending its contract until the 2026 season.

In the context of Formula One’s global expansion, the prospect of hosting two F1 races in a single European country seems less likely in the future. The proposed Madrid GP, set to take place around the Valdebebas area, designates the IFEMA convention center as the focal point of the Grand Prix.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed openness to the Madrid GP and even the prospect of hosting two Spanish events if needed. He said, “It is a matter of meeting around a table and negotiating what is best for Formula 1. Can Spain have two races? I think so.”

“Then we have to study the commercial part, but I am sure that Formula 1 will study this possibility. And then we will work very well with it.” 

The unfolding developments suggest a dynamic future for Formula One in Spain, with the addition of the Madrid GP potentially bringing a new dimension to the sport on the Iberian Peninsula.

The future of Barcelona GP remain in doubt

However, the certainty of the Barcelona GP taking place is still unsure. While the Grand Prix’s potential inclusion in the F1 calendar could materialize as early as 2024 or, alternatively, from 2025 onwards, the precise timing of the contract agreement is still yet to be finalized.

An official statement is expected soon, as per OK Diario, leaving the F1 enthusiasts highly anticipated for the decision.

Do you think the 2024 Formula One calendar is well organized and scheduled? Or are some changes needed? Let us know in the comment section below.