Ferrari set for landmark surprise filming day at Madring

Ferrari is set to make Formula 1 history this week by becoming the first team to run a current-generation car at Madrid's brand-new Madring circuit, offering an early glimpse of the venue that will stage this year's Spanish Grand Prix.

According to a report from Motorsport.com, the Scuderia is expected to take the SF-26 onto the 5.416km street circuit on Thursday as part of an official filming day, marking the first time an F1 car will lap the Spanish capital's newest motorsport destination ahead of its Grand Prix debut on September 11-13.

While the session will officially fall under Formula 1's filming day regulations, the opportunity carries significance well beyond promotional content.

Ferrari will be permitted to complete up to 200km of running, with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc expected to share driving duties.

Although mileage is limited under the rules, the outing will still allow the team to build an initial understanding of the circuit's characteristics before returning for the inaugural Madrid race weekend later this year.

The session could also provide valuable operational insights for Madring's organisers, who will have the chance to observe the venue functioning with a Formula 1 car for the first time.

From track procedures to logistical operations, the event represents an important milestone in the circuit's preparations for its grand prix debut.

A critical operational dress rehearsal

Ferrari arrives in Madrid with renewed momentum following an encouraging run of form in the championship.

Charles Leclerc's victory at the British Grand Prix followed Lewis Hamilton's triumph in Barcelona, giving the Italian squad two wins from the last three races.

The resurgence has strengthened Ferrari's hold on second place in the Constructors' standings, although Mercedes remains 78 points clear at the top, while Hamilton and Leclerc occupy third and fourth respectively in the drivers' championship.

The planned running also underlines the rapid progress made at Madring. Until only recently, large sections of the venue were still under construction, with work continuing on grandstands, the paddock and supporting infrastructure.

However, the circuit itself has now been completed, including its 22-corner layout and distinctive ‘La Monumental’ banked section.

Ferrari's appearance is therefore expected to serve as a key validation of the venue's readiness, with the SF-26 becoming the first Formula 1 machine to tackle a circuit that is rapidly transitioning from construction project to grand prix host.

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