F1 Fast Five: Madrid lands 10-year Spanish GP deal from 2026, Audi Dakar's victory sends message to F1, and other big updates

Madrid lands 10-year Spanish GP deal from 2026

Formula 1 has officially announced that Spain's Grand Prix will relocate to Madrid in 2026 on a 10-year deal, with the circuit incorporating both street and non-street sections around the IFEMA Exhibition Centre. The new track, spanning 5.47km with 20 corners, will include a permanent pits and paddock facility. The fate of the long-standing host Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, contracted until 2026, remains uncertain, and Formula 1 is in talks with Barcelona's promoter about future options. Madrid's move marks a significant shift, with the last Formula 1 race in the Madrid area occurring in 1981 at the Jarama facility.

Click here to read the full article by Phillip Horton (motorsportweek.com)

Audi Dakar's victory sends message to F1

Audi faced criticism for its motorsport management decisions, including the shift from sportscar racing to Formula 1, a move deemed contrary to its racing heritage. Doubters questioned Audi's ability to succeed in F1, highlighting the challenges faced by other manufacturers in the competitive field. Despite such skepticism, Audi's Dakar Rally victory with Carlos Sainz Sr showcased the brand's adaptability and determination, countering doubts about its ability to compete at the highest level. With the Dakar triumph, Audi now turns its focus towards Formula 1, aligning with Sauber to establish a competitive presence despite anticipated challenges in the initial years.

Click here to read the full article by Rachit Thukral (motosport.com)

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Domenicali clarifies Barcelona future amid uncertainty

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali suggests that Barcelona might still have a spot on the calendar despite the Spanish Grand Prix moving to Madrid in 2026. Discussions are ongoing to explore the possibility of extending collaboration with Barcelona for future races, acknowledging the healthy interest in F1 in Spain. Domenicali highlights the strong global appetite for the sport, emphasizing Madrid's commitment with a deal lasting until 2035, second only to Bahrain's agreement until 2036. The extended contracts provide long-term visibility and stability for promoters, partners, teams, and the sport itself.

Click here to read the full article by Adam Cooper (motorsport.com)

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Grand Prix races at risk

Several traditional F1 circuits, including Silverstone, Suzuka, Monza, Monaco, Spa, and Zandvoort, have short-term contracts set to expire within the next three years. Conversely, countries like Brazil, Australia, and Hungary have secured long-term contracts extending into the mid-2030s. Notably, countries such as Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and Bahrain have committed significant financial investments to secure coveted calendar positions, with Las Vegas and Miami also featuring long-term contracts through 2032 and 2031, respectively.

Click here to read the full article by Jesse Janse (motorsport.com)

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Insane timepieces of 2023

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The 2023 F1 season was notable for its excitement, victories, losses, and drama. Interestingly, for an F1 photographer, the excitement took a unique turn – the astonishing array of watches in the paddock. From the elegant Audemars Piguet Royal Oakshore 43 worn by a woman in the Zandvoort paddock to the iconic Rolex Daytona Le Mans, these are the top 10 watches of the 2023 season that stood out.