Pedro de la Rosa Urges Spain to Invest in Young F1 Talent

Former Formula 1 driver and Aston Martin ambassador Pedro de la Rosa has urged leading Spanish companies to invest in young drivers to secure the country's future in the sport. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Motorsport Week at the new Madring circuit, de la Rosa emphasized that while Spain currently enjoys the success of Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz, financial backing for emerging talent is vital to produce their future replacements.

De la Rosa praised the organizers of the Madring circuit, which is hosting its maiden Grand Prix as the sixth venue for the Spanish Grand Prix under a 10-year contract. He commended the rapid completion of the hybrid street circuit's infrastructure, paddock, and corporate units. Despite Spain hosting two Grands Prix in 2026, de la Rosa warned that having races alone will not guarantee a future World Champion without increased corporate investment in young drivers.

Highlighting Spain's current driver lineup beyond Alonso and Sainz, de la Rosa noted talents such as Alex Palou, Pepe Martí in Formula E, Mari Boya in F2, and Bruno Del Pino in F3. He expressed hope that the new venue in Madrid will encourage Spanish companies to step up their involvement in Formula 1. Meanwhile, de la Rosa expressed hope that his Aston Martin colleague Alonso can deliver a strong performance for the home crowd today despite starting from the tail end of the grid.