F1

Madrid to join Formula One calendar from 2026 for first time since 1981

PA understands Madrid’s contract does not mean Barcelona, which has staged a race since 1991, will drop off the schedule.

Madrid will return to the F1 calendar in 2026
Madrid will return to the F1 calendar in 2026 (David Davies/PA)

Formula One has announced Madrid will join the calendar from 2026, with the Spanish capital set to host its first race in 45 years.

The upcoming season will see a record 24 grands prix take place as the sport continues to grow in new markets, attracting more interest from prospective venues.

The PA news agency understands Madrid winning a contract to stage a race does not mean Barcelona – which has hosted F1 since 1991 at the Circuit de Catalunya – will drop off the calendar, although their contract does expire at the same time.

Madrid last held an F1 grand prix in 1981 at Jarama – a race won by the Ferrari of Gilles Villeneuve.