Media Kampung, Madrid – Lando Norris of McLaren secured a surprising pole position for the first Spanish Grand Prix held on the new Madrín street circuit, marking a dramatic start to the 2026 F1 season.
The race, which replaces Barcelona as the host of the Spanish GP under a ten-year agreement, is scheduled for Sunday with the start time set at 15:00 CET. Practice sessions will run on Friday, qualifying on Saturday, and the main event on Sunday, offering fans a full weekend of action on the 22‑corner track featuring the iconic steeply banked Turn 12, dubbed “La Monumental”.
The Madrín circuit, designed as a city street layout, presents a fresh challenge for drivers and teams. Home favorites Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso will race on familiar ground, while the new layout tests car setups with its mix of fast straights and tight corners.
Norris’ pole lap demonstrated McLaren’s strong pace, catching many competitors off guard. His performance adds intrigue to the championship battle, especially as Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton faced a setback after a crash in qualifying, and Ferrari’s Kimi Antonelli continues his impressive form from Monza.
Key points for the weekend:
- Friday: Two practice sessions, each lasting 45 minutes.
- Saturday: Final practice session followed by a three-part qualifying session.
- Sunday: Race start at 15:00 CET, with a projected distance of 306 km over 66 laps.
The inaugural Spanish GP in Madrid is expected to draw large crowds, revitalising interest in Formula 1 across Spain and showcasing the country’s commitment to motorsport innovation.
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