Sainz: Having two F1 races in Spain 'not feasible'

Carlos Sainz says a Formula 1 circuit in Madrid would come at the expense of moving away from the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

A potential replacement for Barcelona could be on the cards, after F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali reportedly met with officials to explore the possibility of a street track in the Spanish capital of Madrid.

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has a contract until 2026 and has recently undergone renovations to improve the racing and facilities.

"I've heard of the project and everything. I just can say that I will do my maximum and just to ensure that there's still a Spanish GP, independently of where," Sainz told media, including RacingNews365.com.

"I think Barcelona now is doing a great job and I've been enjoying coming to Barcelona many years."

F1's popularity in Spain is high and this fan influx has often led to more than one race taking part in a country, with Italy and the US recently expanding to more than one race.

But Sainz admitted that having two races in Spain would "not be feasible" despite its growing interest.

"I don't think it’s the intention of everyone, especially when you look at where they are going with the races and the new horizons they have in the [United] States and everywhere, so I don't believe two Grands Prix in Spain is feasible right now," added Sainz.

"But I do feel like out of the Europe circuits or places that F1 is wanting to stay and is wanting to make sure we keep a base in Europe like we've seen in recent years.

"I do think Spain is the right place to keep a yearly Grand Prix and I'm sure Spain is going to do everything they can do to keep it, and I think it’s the right move."

Bottas: Change of venue must produce better racing

Valtteri Bottas said any change of venue for the Spanish GP would only make sense if the Madrid track produces more overtaking opportunities than the Barcelona circuit.

"I like the race here. It's not obviously the easiest track to overtake at, but it's a nice traditional race with a good atmosphere. The track is nice to drive, I think now even nicer with the new layout," he explained.

"But at the same time, if they come up with something better in Madrid then yeah sure, but it's not like we have a say in things. We go where F1 goes and race there."