George Russell flags tyre degradation concerns at new Madring F1 circuit

Formula 1 drivers opened practice sessions on Friday at the new Madring circuit in Madrid, ahead of Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix. George Russell highlighted significant concerns regarding high tyre degradation levels caused by the track’s high-speed layout and banked turns, noting that early sessions suggested extreme wear patterns. Mercedes team members and competitors have noted that the lack of straights provides little opportunity for tyres to cool, creating a demanding thermal environment for all teams. Russell led the first practice session while his teammate Kimi Antonelli paced the second, as Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton remained within two tenths of the top speed. While teams work to balance long-run pace and setup challenges like braking lock-ups, the weekend continues with qualifying scheduled for Saturday at 3pm.