BREAKING: Spanish Grand Prix Protest Planned as F1 Track Faces M…read more
Protest Planned Against 2026 Spanish Grand Prix as New Madrid F1 Track Faces Strong Opposition
A protest is being organized against the construction of the new Formula 1 circuit in Madrid, which is set to host the Spanish Grand Prix from 2026. The race will take place around the IFEMA exhibition centre in the Barajas district and is scheduled to remain in the city until 2035.
The demonstration, planned for June 7th, is being led by a coalition called Stop F1 Madrid. The protest will coincide with the official unveiling of the new track. The group includes residents from neighborhoods such as Canillas, Las Cárcavas, Valdebebas, and San Lorenzo, alongside environmental organizations like Ecologists in Action, Extinction Rebellion, and the Madrid Tree Roundtable.
Their concerns include expected increases in noise, pollution, and disruption to daily life, as well as the loss of green spaces and the absence of public input during the planning process. The opposition has grown since Madrid was confirmed as the new host city, replacing Barcelona as the Grand Prix venue.
However, not all residents are opposed. Some argue that the race could bring economic benefits to Madrid, including job opportunities, increased tourism, and long-term financial investment. “Not everything about it is negative,” one local commented. “Events like this attract capital and visitors, which can benefit many people.”
Supporters point to examples like the Miami Grand Prix, which has reportedly generated over $1 billion for the local economy in the last three years. F1 organizers in Miami have also launched education and internship programs, contributing to the community in other meaningful ways.
GPFans has contacted Formula 1 for a response regarding the protest and the concerns raised by Stop F1 Madrid, but no official comment has been made yet.
As tensions rise, the June 7th protest is expected to draw significant attention and could play a major role in shaping the future of Formula1 in Madrid.
