Formula 1 drivers gave a positive initial verdict on the Madring after their first practice sessions on the new track yesterday.

“The track is extremely challenging in every aspect,” said Esteban Ocon. “But it’s very good fun, I’m having a blast out there.”

The Haas driver was relieved to discover the track offered a reasonably high grip level for a new, temporary facility.

“It is a big, big challenge but the grip is super high, which makes it very, very interesting and very different to any other tracks,” he said. “So it was fun out there so far.”

Only one driver, Arvid Lindblad, had a significant crash during Friday’s two practice sessions. “It’s not an easy track, so we’re all pushing to find the limits,” he explained.

“It’s new for all of us. I just made a bit of a mistake, overdid it a little bit in turn 13, so it’s a bit of a shame. Obviously, I apologise to the mechanics and to the team because it’s a bit of extra work for them unfortunately tonight.”

Nico Hulkenberg was impressed by the speed of the layout in places. “Hell of a track, the Madring,” said the Audi driver. “Tough, very challenging. I mean, crazy fast: it’s like Monaco, but just ultra fast. There’s some serious high-speed combinations, a lot of change of directions with virtually no room for error, no run-off on the exit.

“So it was an intense day. Heart rate’s definitely up in this circuit and the adrenaline is kicking in, but we managed to scrape through today.”

However a significant question for the remainder of the weekend is how easily drivers will be able to pass in the race. “We don’t know, obviously, racing-wise, how realistic or possible overtaking is or not,” said Hulkenberg. “That obviously has an impact how important quali is or is not.

“It’s a lot of first times here and a lot learning over the entire weekend and it’s kind of learning by doing and finding out and going through those processes and we’ll see what happens.”

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2026 Spanish Grand Prix
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