Madrid GP blasted as 'complete disaster' as Honda switches F1 project leader

Spain's Transport Minister Oscar Puente has branded the inaugural Madrid Grand Prix "a complete disaster," comparing the MADRING to "Monaco 2, but faster" after the race produced almost no overtaking. Meanwhile, Honda has confirmed a leadership change in its Aston Martin power unit programme, with Yoichiro Fukao stepping up as Large Project Leader from 1 October.

Why it matters:

The MADRING backlash has now drawn political voices, adding weight to demands from Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli for a circuit redesign. For Honda, the leadership shift reflects a strategic push to secure long-term competitiveness as new regulations reshape the sport.

The details:

• Madrid GP backlash: Puente took to X, claiming the race became "a train of cars from start to finish," with running order changes driven solely by strategy rather than on-track overtaking.
• Mounting pressure: The lack of passing has sparked widespread calls for change, with drivers reportedly demanding a layout redesign.
• Honda leadership change: Yoichiro Fukao, formerly Deputy Leader of Honda Racing Corporation's F1 project, will succeed Tetsushi Kakuda, who led development until now.
• Long-term vision: Honda aims to pass technical expertise to the next generation of engineers, strengthening its framework for the 2026 regulations and further changes expected from 2027.

What's next:

The MADRING faces growing scrutiny ahead of its next edition, with political pressure joining driver demands for a more overtaking-friendly layout. Honda's new leadership structure takes effect on 1 October.