Welcome to the Madring, a new, brutal and unforgiving F1 challenge for Spanish Grand Prix

New hybrid street circuit has fast corners and virtually no margin for error – but limited overtaking opportunities In Madrid’s Puerta del Sol this week, Formula One fans were not shy in calling on the gods to look kindly on their favoured drivers on a newly built circuit that appears punishingly unforgiving.

Legend has it that rubbing the paws or backside of the bear in the famous El Oso y el Madroño statue at the square’s heart confers good luck. The drivers may well need it. Day one of action at…