In one respect, it is the largest of compliments for a new Formula 1 grand prix. As comparisons go for a new European street circuit, Monaco is the gold-standard for the glitzy extravaganza which comes with the top-tier of modern-day single-seater motorsport. And Madrid on Sunday, awash with Real Madrid’s superstars and the King of Spain no less, was a buzzing assortment of packed grandstands, impressive logistics and lavish A-lister outfits.
Yet after 90 minutes of largely dull and non-existent on-track racing, where simply “placing your car in the middle of the track” was adequate defence, as per Max Verstappen, the analogy to the Monaco crown-jewel event was not favourable for the new Madring circuit.
