Lewis Hamilton Strongly Criticizes New Formula 1 Race Tracks

Lewis Hamilton has openly shared his views on the recent trend of new circuits joining the Formula 1 calendar. With Madrid set to make its debut as the new home of the Spanish Grand Prix in 2025, Hamilton expressed skepticism over the quality and excitement these new tracks bring compared to the older, classic venues.

According to Hamilton, over 90 percent of new tracks fail to meet the driving standards set by their predecessors. The seven-time world champion emphasized that, while keeping the event in Spain is positive, he hopes the shift to Madrid will not come at the cost of losing venues like Barcelona, which has hosted Formula 1 and built a strong following, especially since Fernando Alonso’s rise.

The Formula 1 calendar has seen significant changes in recent years, with street circuits like Jeddah and Las Vegas added, while classic tracks have faced uncertainty. From 2027, Spa-Francorchamps—a long-time favorite among fans and drivers—will feature on the schedule only every other year.

Hamilton pointed out that when new tracks are built, there is a high chance they don’t deliver the excitement or challenge that drivers and fans expect. “Building new circuits is very, very hit and miss. Ninety plus percent of the time, it’s worse,” Hamilton admitted, underscoring his doubt that Madrid or any new venue could truly replace the classics.

Barcelona still holds a contract for one more year, but its future beyond 2025 remains unclear. Hamilton shared that as long as Spanish fans have a race to attend and celebrate, that remains the most important aspect.

He praised Spain’s commitment to Formula 1, noting the strong support from local fans and the significance that traditional races hold within the sport. Despite his reservations, Hamilton sees value in expanding and updating the calendar, as long as new circuits are designed to offer exciting racing.

Several recent calendar additions have focused on city-based events and unique layouts, catering to both commercial goals and new fan bases. This strategy, while it has broadened Formula 1’s global reach, has sparked debate within the paddock about whether racing excitement is being sacrificed.

As top drivers adapt to continually evolving circumstances, Hamilton’s comments highlight the importance of circuit design and maintaining traditions that define the sport’s identity.

For the upcoming season, the Spanish Grand Prix will move to Madrid, and fans will be watching how the new track compares to previous venues. The Formula 1 schedule for 2025 is shaping up with a mix of established and new circuits, including races at Silverstone, Spa, and the Red Bull Ring.

Hamilton and other drivers will test these additions as they continue to chase victories and championship points across the calendar. In the meantime, the discussion around classic versus new tracks stays active among teams and fans.

The decision makers face a challenge—balancing the push for progress with the desire to preserve what many see as the core excitement of Formula 1’s heritage.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.