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Hamilton wants F1 to keep “classic” Barcelona over possible Madrid switch

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has declared his affection for the “classic” Barcelona circuit amid speculation that Formula 1 could move the Spanish Grand Prix to a street track in Madrid.

The current Barcelona venue has been on the calendar since 1991 and for this year, the final chicane has been ditched in favour of a return to high-speed Turns 13-14. This tweak has been devised to boost overtaking.

The last time the series used this configuration was in 2006.

But starting from the 2026 season, plans are afoot to devise a street race in the Spanish capital, Madrid. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali held talks with the backers earlier this year.

Amid the proliferation of street circuits in recent years - with the additions of Jeddah, Miami, Baku and Las Vegas most notably - Hamilton reckons F1 should not risk the future of too many “traditional” circuits.

However, the seven-time champion was open to the prospect of a race in Madrid so long as the layout bettered the short-lived Valencia street track used between 2008 and 2012.

Hamilton, a record-equalling six-time winner of the Spanish Grand Prix who went undefeated from 2017 to 2021, said: “As long as it’s not like Valencia was, which wasn’t the most enjoyable track to drive.

“I don’t think I would want to lose Barcelona. One, I love the city. I do think it’s really important we keep some of the classic circuits.

“At least the ones that provide great racing. Budapest is spectacular. Silverstone is spectacular. This track [in Barcelona].

Source: Autosport

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