Kimi Antonelli secured the fastest time in practice sessions at the new Madrid circuit ahead of the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix. The Italian driver, riding for Mercedes, led the way during the second free practice session on Friday, outpacing both Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. Antonelli’s performance highlights his strong form ahead of the race, which marks the 14th round of the 2026 season.
The Madrid circuit, known as the Madring, is a new track designed to challenge drivers with its tight corners and high-speed sections. The 5.4-kilometer layout includes 22 turns, with the 12th corner, dubbed the "Monumentale," being particularly demanding. Pilots have expressed concerns about the track’s difficulty, with some calling it the most dangerous of the season.
The event is set to take place in Madrid, where the Grand Prix returns after a 45-year absence. The circuit’s unique design and location have sparked both excitement and apprehension among teams. Antonelli’s early dominance suggests he could be a strong contender for victory, though the race will also test the adaptability of other drivers to the challenging new layout.
The Spanish Grand Prix will be broadcast by public broadcaster TVE, a move that has drawn criticism from regional leaders who accuse the channel of not adequately covering the event. Despite these concerns, the focus remains on the competition, with Antonelli’s performance setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling race.
