F1 practice LIVE: Spanish Grand Prix 226 times, results, radio & updates from Madrid

The 2026 Spanish Grand Prix has commenced with the first practice session (FP1) taking place at the newly constructed Madring circuit in Madrid. According to coverage from Formula 1 and Sky Sports, George Russell secured the top spot in the initial practice session as cars hit the new track for the first time. The event is being tracked via live updates, including radio communications and results, as reported by the BBC. This debut marks a transition for the Spanish Grand Prix to a new venue within the capital city of Madrid. Reporting from Sky Sports emphasizes both the performance and the tensions emerging on the track.

While George Russell leads the timings, the outlet notes that Lewis Hamilton has frustrated other drivers during the session. Additionally, Sky Sports highlights a critical perspective from Max Verstappen, who has characterized the new Madring F1 circuit as probably a car killer. This assessment suggests significant technical challenges associated with the track surface or layout, leading drivers to anticipate a disruptive weekend ahead. Context for this trend is provided by the shift to the Madring circuit, which represents a new environment for the grid. The coverage from The Race and Yahoo Sports confirms that the 2026 Spanish GP is centering its action around this specific Madrid-based location.

The transition to a new facility often introduces unpredictable variables regarding tire wear and mechanical stress, which aligns with Verstappen's comments regarding the potential for vehicle damage and the general anticipation of instability throughout the race weekend. Future developments to monitor include the subsequent practice results and official radio updates as the event progresses. Based on the reports from the BBC and Formula 1, the focus remains on whether the disruptive nature of the Madring circuit will impact the standings beyond the first session. Observers will be watching to see if George Russell can maintain his lead and how the frustrations involving Lewis Hamilton evolve. The technical viability of the cars on the car killer circuit will likely be a primary point of analysis in upcoming reports.