Antonelli wins Madrid GP as drivers criticize circuit layout

Kimi Antonelli won the inaugural Madrid Grand Prix on Sunday, September 14, securing his eighth victory of the Formula 1 season after a virtual safety car period on lap 15. The Mercedes driver benefited from the timing of the caution, while polesitter Lando Norris lost a potential victory when the yellow-flag conditions ended just as he entered the pit lane. The race at the new Madring circuit was widely criticized by drivers and teams for its lack of overtaking opportunities. The 22-turn layout, which combines public roads with purpose-built sections, was described as "dull" and "monotonous" after the early safety car period. Norris, who finished on the podium, said he did not understand how the track design was approved, calling it "not a great racetrack." Multiple drivers echoed concerns about the circuit's racing quality. Max Verstappen, who finished second, had predicted the lack of overtaking from simulator work and noted that some adjustments are needed. Norris suggested specific changes, including removing turns 18 and 19 to create a longer straight into a hairpin, which would improve overtaking opportunities.