Madrid moved forward on a bold new chapter when leaders gathered at Ifema Pavilion 1 to unveil the plan for bringing Formula 1 back to the city. The event marked a major milestone in the campaign to position Madrid as a premier European venue for the sport, with officials highlighting the economic and global visibility benefits tied to the return.
In the lead-up to the city’s major tourism fair, Fitur, the stage was set to emphasize the advantages of welcoming Formula 1 once again with the banner theme Welcome back to Madrid. Projections point to a meaningful contribution to the region’s economy, with estimates suggesting a multi-year boost reaching hundreds of millions of euros between 2026 and 2035, the target year for the championship to land in the capital.
The numbers Madrid hopes to make the F1 event the best yet: hundreds of millions in returns, thousands of jobs, tens of thousands of visitors
Key figures and planners from the organizing and hosting groups were present, including leaders from Ifema Madrid and the Formula 1 management team. An official from the private organizing consortium outlined the circuit’s technical blueprint and awaited final FIA confirmation as the project moved toward regulatory approval. Business figures also weighed in, underscoring the opportunity for wealth creation and employment that the return of Formula 1 could unlock for the capital.
8,200 direct jobs and broad media exposure
The plan envisions substantial employment through direct participation in the event, with thousands more indirect roles in the economy. If count tourism and associated activities, the forecasted impact includes tens of thousands of ancillary jobs and a vibrant growth cycle for local businesses. Visitor spend estimates suggest a mix of international and domestic tourism, with a typical visitor expenditure projected in the range of several hundred euros per day, reflecting both international and regional tourist activity. The overall spending expectation aligns with a notable upsurge in economic momentum for the area.
Direct GDP impact on the community is anticipated to be a fraction of the region’s total output, while city-level GDP figures are expected to reflect a measurable increase as the event draws significant attention and activity to Madrid.
The promotion surrounding the event also highlighted its ripple effect across media and audiences worldwide. Officials projected a daily spectator figure and broad social media reach that would spotlight Madrid as a global hub for sport and entertainment. The consensus: this milestone could elevate Madrid onto a shortlist of high-profile venues that host F1, underscoring the city’s capacity to deliver world-class events with seamless urban integration. The broader sentiment was one of pride and ambition, aimed at illustrating Madrid’s readiness to host a premier Grand Prix and its potential to attract global audiences.
F1’s return to Madrid in 2026 takes shape: a showcase event for the new Spanish GP
“The best F1 Grand Prix in the world”
The speakers emphasized that Madrid does not merely aspire to host Formula 1; it seeks to be the defining venue for the sport. The vision includes a cutting-edge circuit set within a connected urban environment, designed to offer an optimal backdrop for racing, entertainment, and fan engagement. Madrid is portrayed as an international reference point, with the event positioned to demonstrate the city’s quality of facilities, organization, and appeal.
Supporters stressed the collaborative effort across the city and its institutions, praising the coordination between organizers and the local government. The message resonated with pride for Madrid’s readiness to host the world’s most prestigious motor race, along with gratitude for the trust shown by key stakeholders in Madrid. The tribute extended to celebrating the broader community of Spanish Formula One drivers who would be part of the narrative surrounding this historic return.