'It started as a joke, a fantasy' - F1 heads to football-obsessed Madrid
After F1’s explosion in popularity away from its European heartland the sport is coming home. Why Madrid? Because it is beautiful… and has a very big expo centre on the outskirts.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"An F1 grand prix is like a unicorn - you are trying always to see the unicorn but at the end you realise [sometimes] it's impossible."
— Luis Garcia Abad , Executive
Locations
All Coverage
After F1’s explosion in popularity away from its European heartland the sport is coming home. Why Madrid? Because it is beautiful… and has a very big expo centre on the outskirts.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Verstappen wins sprint after Russell crashes out
Red Bull's Max Verstappen wins an incident-packed sprint race at the Singapore Grand Prix after George Russell crashes out of the lead.
October 10, 2026 at 01:26 PMAll Blacks power past Australia to retain Bledisloe Cup
New Zealand retain the Bledisloe Cup for a 23rd straight year as they power past Australia to extend their remarkable unbeaten run at Eden Park.
October 10, 2026 at 09:21 AMArsenal eye deal for teenager Mora - Saturday's gossip
Arsenal eye deal for Mexico teenager Gilberto Mora, AC Milan in pole position for Endrick, Nottingham Forest braced for Murillo interest
October 9, 2026 at 09:19 PMAfcon move to every four years under review by Caf
The Africa Cup of Nations may continue to be held every two years, with discussions under way to reverse its proposed switch to a four-year cycle.
October 9, 2026 at 03:57 PMVerstappen on sprint pole after another settings issue
Red Bull's Max Verstappen beats Mercedes driver George Russell to sprint pole at the Singapore Grand Prix.
October 9, 2026 at 03:48 PMMourinho calls criticism of Mbappe 'ridiculous'
Jose Mourinho defends Kylian Mbappe who has been scrutinised during the international break.
October 9, 2026 at 09:57 AM