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The brand-new Madring in Madrid has taken another step towards its Formula 1 debut after all 30 FIA Formula 3 drivers completed two days of in-season testing at the venue.
The test provided valuable preparation for the final two rounds of the F3 season, while also giving the drivers the chance to put the new circuit through its first serious competitive evaluation. The Spanish Grand Prix will be held at the venue when Formula 1 arrives in Madrid for the 14th round of the 2026 season, with Formula 2 and Formula 3 joining the weekend’s support programme.
The session also comes as the F3 title fight enters its closing stages. Audi junior Freddie Slater leads the standings by eight points with two rounds remaining, meaning the Madrid running offered an important opportunity to build confidence at a circuit that many drivers were experiencing for the first time. Alex Powell’s move to PREMA for the final two F3 rounds adds further interest to the championship’s closing phase.
Madring combines permanent circuit sections with public-road segments, creating a layout unlike a conventional venue. Its most striking feature is the steeply banked corner named La Monumental, which is expected to become one of the defining visual and driving challenges when F1 makes its official appearance on the weekend of September 11–13.
Carlos Sainz, Madrid’s home hero, sampled the track in May. Ferrari subsequently completed a filming day at the venue, earning the distinction of recording the first Formula 1 running there.
Slater emerged from the F3 test impressed by the layout’s feel and variety. “I think this track is incredible to drive, it’s a bit old-school, got some interesting corners and it’s got a lot of character to it,” he said. “It’s probably one of the most enjoyable on a push lap on the calendar.”
Having already driven at Macau and Monaco this season, Slater compared Madring’s appeal with the demands of street circuits, where precision and commitment are essential. “It’s about going out, being on the limit,” he added.
The championship leader singled out the Turn 5 and 6 chicane, although he stopped short of naming a definitive favourite section. “I’m just enjoying it, having fun,” Slater said.
With the F3 field now familiar with Madring, the circuit’s next major examination will come when Madrid welcomes Formula 1 for the first time.
He’s a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.