Lewis Hamilton aims criticism at new F1 tracks

Lewis Hamilton has admitted he is not a fan of many new F1 circuits, stating over 90 per cent of them are worse than the venues they replace.

A fresh track is set to join the F1 schedule next year with Madrid taking over the Spanish Grand Prix, despite also Barcelona having a contract for one more year.

Its position on the schedule beyond next year is unknown, however Hamilton has voiced support for the event to remain on the calendar.

“I think ultimately losing any of the classics, and this is one of the classics, I think would be a shame, because as I said, it’s a great city,” Hamilton told media including RacingNews365.

“There’s a great following here in Spain, particularly since Fernando [Alonso] was here. As long as we have a race in Spain, that's what matters most.

“This feels like the home of Formula 1 in Spain. But it’s okay to progress as a sport, and I know Madrid, as I said, is a great location.”

Madrid is the latest in a series of street tracks that have been added to the schedule in recent years, following locations such as Jeddah and Las Vegas.

The evolving calendar has also seen Spa-Francorchamps, a favourite among drivers and fans alike, switch to being present on the schedule every second year from 2027.

Hamilton admitted he does not have much faith the new tracks will be as fun to drive as “classic” venues.

“As long as they build a good circuit, which I’m less hopeful for – building new circuits is very, very hit and miss. 90 plus per cent of the time, it’s worse.

“As long as it’s a better circuit, or as good a circuit, I’m not bothered either way.”