Drivers criticize Madrid GP track design following high tire degradation
2 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 9:26 AM
Last updated Sep 13, 2026
Formula 1 teams and drivers are navigating unexpected challenges at the new Madrid street circuit as the weekend progresses. Data from early practice sessions revealed significantly higher tire degradation than initial projections, prompting Pirelli to revise its strategy forecasts from a two-stop to a one-stop race. While high grip levels across the new asphalt surface surprised teams, drivers like Lando Norris and Max Verstappen have raised concerns regarding the circuit's layout. Specifically, the pitlane length—which is split by a section of the IFEMA complex—drew criticism for being the longest on the calendar. This design feature is expected to impose a substantial time penalty on pit stops, further discouraging multi-stop strategies. The weekend continues with teams balancing the effects of graining and thermal decay on the rear axle as they prepare for the race.
- •High tire degradation rates on the new Madrid surface exceed initial expectations from Pirelli.
- •Mercedes previously considered a six-stop strategy due to early data showing significant degradation.
- •Drivers including Lando Norris and Max Verstappen describe the pitlane as excessively long.
- •The pitlane configuration acts as a deterrent to multiple pit stops for teams.
- •Pirelli now anticipates a one-stop race following revisions to initial two-stop projections.
- 9:26 AMMotorsport.com — What to expect from Madrid GP? From Mercedes' six-stop joke to a "six-kilometre-long" pitlane
- 9:26 AMYahoo Sports — What to expect from Madrid GP? From Mercedes' six-stop joke to a "six-kilometre-long" pitlane
"The circuit in Madrid has offered Formula 1 drivers a surprisingly high level of grip during their first visit, something that is certainly not a given at a new circuit. The grip level has taken some teams in the paddock by surprise, although the very high tyre degradation so far has done the same. "It was tricky at the start of the weekend because this track has so much grip, even though it's ...Keep reading
"Toto Wolff said that after FP1, Mercedes' strategy department was thinking about a six-stop race. In reality, the extremely long pitlane has drawn criticism and appears to favour a one-stopper
Sources
External links- Motorsport.comSep 13, 2026, 9:26 AMWhat to expect from Madrid GP? From Mercedes' six-stop joke to a "six-kilometre-long" pitlane
The circuit in Madrid has offered Formula 1 drivers a surprisingly high level of grip during their first visit, something that is certainly not a given at a new circuit. The grip level has taken some teams in the paddock by surprise, although the very high tyre degradation so far has done the same. "It was tricky at the start of the weekend because this track has so much grip, even though it's ...Keep reading
- Yahoo SportsSep 13, 2026, 9:26 AMWhat to expect from Madrid GP? From Mercedes' six-stop joke to a "six-kilometre-long" pitlane
Toto Wolff said that after FP1, Mercedes' strategy department was thinking about a six-stop race. In reality, the extremely long pitlane has drawn criticism and appears to favour a one-stopper
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