F1 News: Madrid Circuit To Have Steepest Banked Corner On Calendar At 30 Degrees
The newest addition to Formula 1's circuit lineup is the hybrid circuit in Madrid, set to feature the steepest banked corner on record, boasting a remarkable 30-degree incline, as stated by designer Jarno Zafelli. Additionally, he hinted at "two or three surprises" to further enhance the circuit's distinctive layout.
Madrid will be the venue for the Spanish Grand Prix from 2026. While Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya's future from then remains uncertain, the design of the new hybrid circuit, which is a combination of a street circuit and a permanent track, is at another level.
Zafelli wishes to have the sport's steepest banked corner in Madrid, which would go on to become the circuit's identity. Currently, the host of the Dutch Grand Prix- Circuit Zandvoort, holds the title for the steepest bank angle at 19 degrees.
Hence, Madrid takes significant strides forward with plans to introduce a 30-degree banked corner, which Zafelli believes will be easier to construct when construction begins in a few months. He told Marca:
“[They] will be easier than retouching the current one, removing centres, crossing roundabouts, grading streets and resurfacing and other touch-ups.
“We do not want to repeat elements of other circuits, Madrid will have its own personality and the elements and areas it needs.
“We haven’t copied anyone and it should be ready by June 2026.”
In addition to the steep bank angle, there are further surprises in store having the potential to make Madrid a hot racing spot. Zafelli added:
“The fact of not being limited like in a city allowed us to seek the limits.
“How much will depend on the following phases, on F1, the FIA and everything that is discussed during the final design.
“Improvements or cuts? No, no, no. In terms of length, I don’t think so. As for the layout, there will be small changes in Valdebebas, because that area is the one that is not developed at the moment. And yes, we expect some surprise… Well, there may be two or three surprises that we haven’t been able to show yet.
“When you leave the first tunnel, wide and correct, you face a very short route but it goes up very steep, 10 metres, and therefore there will be a compression and also the entrance will be blind to the new area, which will see an inclined descent of 10 or 15 metres and for 500-700 metres to attack that bank. The layout will be almost permanent.”
IFEMA - Madrid Grand Prix