Carlos Sainz thrilled 80,000 fans in Madrid, driving the FW45 through future Spanish GP streets during a landmark F1 roadshow.
Last weekend, Carlos Sainz and Williams Racing brought Formula 1 to life in Madrid as headliners of the Madring Roadshow in partnership with IFEMA Madrid.
The FW45 lit up the streets of the future Spanish Grand Prix circuit.
It was a landmark moment: the FW45 became the first F1 car to run on a one-kilometre stretch of the new Madring layout, officially marking the launch of the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix.
More than 80,000 fans gathered trackside to welcome Carlos back to his hometown, as Madrid prepares to host Formula 1 in the Spanish capital for the first time since 1981.
“It’s a dream come true for me to be back in Madrid, driving the FW45 through the streets where I grew up,” said Carlos Sainz.
“I’ll never forget the moment I drove this car in front of a crowd of 80,000 people from all over the world.”
“It was an emotional day, but just a taste of what’s to come in 2026. Next year will be a major milestone for Madrid as it becomes an integral part of Formula 1, and I can’t wait!”
