Organisers of the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid are already planning significant track changes for 2027 to unlock overtaking opportunities.
Persistent Cutting‑Edge Racetrack Lacks Action
The brand‑new 5.4 km layout around IFEMA fairgrounds shocked circuits with its high‑speed corners, yet drivers complained that the main passing zone at Turn 5 chicane was poorly designed, stifling clear overtaking lanes.
Repeated brakes and simultaneous steering at combined entries meant the car in front could defend with ease. A longer pit lane also discouraged varied stop‑time strategies, leaving teams with limited tactical options.
Commitment to Change from Organisers and FIA
Luis Garcia Abad told Motorsport.com that authorities had already supplied a detailed plan for improving the circuit, and his team is prepared to reinstall sections of the track for next season. Garcia Abad confirmed that the FIA’s recommendations are clear and that an overhaul will follow if the proposal is approved.
He highlighted that the layout’s northern half sits on unused land, offering “plenty of scope to make significant changes.” Trainer races under the 10‑year contract will guide budgetary and technical decisions for the future.
Lando Norris Calls for Straight‑Line Sweeps and Wider Turns
World champion Lando Norris proposed a number of specific upgrades, notably a straight from Turn 17 to 20 and a wider entry similar to Austin’s Turn 1 or Turn 10. He also suggested a large hairpin to create more overtaking possibilities, and urged re‑engineering of Turns 5, 6, and 7 to separate braking and turning actions.
“The current need to brake and turn together defeats the objective of racing,” Norris said, aiming to bring the Madrid track to match its competition pedigree.
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