Madrid confirms Ferrari ’tested’ track for F1 debut
"During the run, we were able to test the track"
Ferrari has become the first Formula 1 team to run on Madrid’s new grand prix circuit, less than 10 weeks before the venue’s debut on the world championship calendar.
Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton shared driving duties during a filming day, completing the maximum permitted 200 kilometres on the 5.4km semi-street layout.
The session also allowed organisers to conduct a full operational rehearsal ahead of September’s inaugural Spanish GP.
"A Formula 1 filming day with Scuderia Ferrari HP has enabled the event’s operations, infrastructure and safety systems to be tested under real-world conditions ahead of the circuit’s Formula 1 debut," circuit organisers said.
Officials said the exercise went well beyond simply putting a Formula 1 car on track.
"During the run, we were able to test the asphalt’s behaviour, the circuit’s responsiveness, the kerbs, the run-off areas, the safety procedures, communications, the coordination between the different operational teams and the performance of the track marshals, as well as the functioning of the permanent infrastructure that will serve the event," a circuit spokesperson was quoted as saying by AS newspaper.
Video released by Ferrari showed Leclerc leaving a dusty pitlane, highlighting that construction work is continuing around the venue.
EFE reported that some grandstands, paddock facilities and other infrastructure still require completion before the FIA carries out its final homologation inspections ahead of the Spanish GP weekend.