Ferrari took to the track for the first time in a Formula 1® car at the new Madring circuit during a filming day held on the morning of July 9, 2026. This marked an important milestone as the venue prepares to host the Spanish Grand Prix later in the season.
The session saw Charles Leclerc behind the wheel of the Ferrari SF-26, completing the initial laps around the 20-turn layout that combines public roads with permanent track sections. Lewis Hamilton was also scheduled to drive during the filming day, although details of his runs were not specified. The event operated under certain restrictions, including limited mileage and the use of promotional Pirelli tyres, reflecting its non-competitive nature.
This activity came shortly after a strong British Grand Prix weekend for Ferrari, where Leclerc secured victory and Hamilton finished third, providing momentum for the team’s 2026 championship efforts.
The Madring circuit itself is a new addition to the Formula 1® calendar, featuring a challenging mix of public roads and dedicated track sections. Its 20 corners present a complex layout for drivers to navigate, making the filming day a valuable opportunity for Ferrari to gather initial impressions and footage ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix scheduled for September 11-13, 2026.
While the laps completed during the filming day do not provide insight into performance or lap times, the event highlights Ferrari’s early engagement with the circuit. Such sessions are common as teams prepare for new venues, allowing drivers to familiarize themselves with the track and teams to capture promotional material under controlled conditions.
Charles Leclerc’s role as the first driver to take the SF-26 around Madring underscores his position as a lead driver for Ferrari this season. Lewis Hamilton’s involvement also reflects the team’s commitment to thorough preparation ahead of their home race in Spain.
Overall, Ferrari’s initial laps at Madring represent a step in the ongoing process of integrating the new circuit into the Formula 1® schedule. The filming day’s controlled environment and limited running mean that competitive insights remain limited, but the activity sets the stage for further track action as the Spanish Grand Prix approaches.
The session fits into Ferrari’s broader 2026 campaign, following positive results and continued development. The team’s focus remains on maximizing performance during race weekends, with the Madring circuit set to become a key venue in the championship calendar.
