Tickets for the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Madrid will go on sale to the general public tomorrow, after the presale sold out in two minutes. With a waitlist of 235,000 people, the event has generated significant interest and criticism.
The Formula 1 Grand Prix in Madrid, scheduled for next year, has captured global attention, highlighting the Spanish capital in the international motorsport arena. During the recent presale opening, general tickets sold out in just two minutes, leaving thousands of fans unable to purchase a ticket. The President of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, emphasized the significance of this milestone in a speech at the Assembly: “Formula 1 has already started the countdown and I have great news for you. On Monday, the presale of tickets went on sale, exceeding all expectations. General tickets sold out in two minutes and there is also a list of 235,000 people waiting.”
Ayuso stressed the importance of the event for Madrid, positioning it as a global sports capital. The demand for tickets is coming not only from Spain but also from Latin America and the United States, which translates to a potential significant increase in tourism and business activity in the city.
Alongside ticket sales, the construction of the new Ifema-Valdebebas MadRing urban circuit is progressing according to the promoters’ schedule, aiming to have the entire track paved by the end of the year. The ongoing infrastructure is expected to attract an extraordinary flow of visitors and new investments associated with the event.
However, the ticket acquisition process has generated criticism from fans who complained about the exclusivity of the sales methods and high prices. Despite promises of “affordable” rates, many participants felt the prices matched or even exceeded those of other major European Grand Prix events. Additionally, there is controversy over the requirement to have American Express cards for the presale, leaving many interested parties out of the process.
Complaints also include access to the more affordable passes, which sold out quickly. As the dates for general public sales approach, uncertainty persists regarding how many tickets will be reserved and how they will be distributed. IFEMA, responsible for organizing the event, projects reaching up to 140,000 spectators by 2030, starting with 110,000 in 2026, though these figures are yet to be confirmed. The arrival of Formula 1 in Madrid and its overwhelming interest marks a milestone in the city’s projection as a prominent destination for major events.
Source: www.infobae.com
