Ferrari begins gathering what could be crucial data ahead of its F1 rivals

It was confirmed to GPblog on Tuesday that Ferrari would become the first team to complete laps at the Madring circuit, which was added to the Formula 1 calendar for the 2026 season. The Spanish Grand Prix is set to take place from 11 to 13 September, marking the final European race weekend of the season.

Now, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton can try out the circuit in its full form. Leclerc, who won the British Grand Prix last Sunday, was the first to take to the track.

During a filming day, teams can complete up to 200 kilometres on track. That provides the Italian outfit with valuable extra knowledge ahead of the first race weekend at the Madring in September, while its rivals are likely to arrive at the circuit without any prior experience unless, of course, they also hold similar events in the Spanish capital.

After Max Verstappen's crash because of a rear-wing issue at the British Grand Prix, GPblog understands that the FIA is in discussions with Red Bull Racing and Ferrari over the teams' 'Macarena' rear wings for safety reasons.

The Dutch driver was on course to finish on the podium behind the two Ferrari drivers, Leclerc and Hamilton, when his race suddenly ended, through no fault of his own, in the gravel at Stowe.

"Well, at that point it's super dangerous, because you can really hurt yourself, two times. I was lucky in Austria and I was lucky here, but that's why you get really fed up with it," the four-time world champion said after the race in Silverstone.

The issue is now also on the FIA's radar, GPblog has learned. Currently, two teams, Ferrari and Red Bull Racing, use the 'Macarena' wing, a nickname originally coined by Ferrari team boss Frederic Vasseur during pre-season testing. The motorsport federation is in discussions with both teams to ensure the rear wings meet the necessary safety requirements.