The mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, has affirmed this Thursday that, in a “very preliminary” way, there have been “a series of contacts, mainly through Ifema”, to organize a Grand Prix of the World Cup. Formula 1 in the fairgrounds of the capital, although from Ifema they deny it.
“As of today, Ifema Madrid is not working on that project at all. There has been no contact”, A spokeswoman for the fair institution has assured Efe, thus contradicting the version offered by the mayor when they have asked him about it.
As published by ‘El Mundo’, the organization of the Formula 1 World Championship is considering whether an urban circuit in Ifema Madrid could become the venue for the Spanish Grand Prix, given the possibility that the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where it is currently being held, may not renew its contract, which expires this year.
“It’s true”, said Almeida, who nevertheless stressed that “it is a very complex issue, difficult to manage and negotiate,” and that at the moment “it is in a very preliminary phase, depending on many factors.”
In statements to the media after the central act of the Municipal Police of Madrid on the feast of his patron, San Juan Bautista, Almeida has indicated that “It cannot be said at this time that there will be Formula 1 in Madrid.”
“Which does not mean that we give up not only Formula 1, but also any great project for the city,” he added.