IFEMA MADRID and the New F1 Circuit: BIM on the Fast Track

Formula 1 is synonymous with technology and innovation, consistently making a significant global impact. Beyond the sporting spectacle, the construction of an F1 circuit represents a major economic and tourism boost for the host city.

IFEMA MADRID recently announced the bidding process for the construction of a new circuit in Madrid, aiming to host a Grand Prix in 2026. In this ambitious project, the BIM (Building Information Modeling) methodology will play a crucial role. This is explicitly highlighted in the bidding requirements, which include the “Coordination, control, and supervision of the entire project using the BIM methodology.”

BIM in the Construction of Formula 1 Circuits: Success Stories

BIM methodology has been successfully implemented in the construction of various Formula 1 circuits worldwide. Two notable examples include:

Korea International Circuit: BIM was used to coordinate the design and construction of the facilities.
Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas: BIM was utilized to model the track, grandstands, support buildings, and surrounding infrastructure.

The 3D visualization of the BIM model facilitated communication with stakeholders and improved construction planning. Additionally, BIM was used to analyze spectator sightlines, ensuring an optimal viewing experience from different grandstand locations. This demonstrates how BIM can optimize not only construction but also the overall user experience.

The IFEMA MADRID Project: A New Challenge for BIM

While not all details of the IFEMA MADRID project have been publicly disclosed, it is expected that the circuit will include pit buildings, grandstands, team facilities, and hospitality areas.

According to IFEMA MADRID’s official website, the project includes:

Track length: 5.474 km – 20 corners
Capacity: 110,000 spectators, with an increase to over 140,000 in the fifth year
Qualifying lap time: 1 minute and 32 seconds
Facilities: Pit buildings, grandstands, team facilities, hospitality areas
Over 200,000 m² of covered exhibition halls
10,000 m² of multi-purpose meeting spaces
10,000 parking spaces

IFEMA MADRID’s bidding process emphasizes the importance of BIM in project management. BIM is expected to be used for:

Coordinating different teams: Architects, engineers, builders, and other professionals will collaborate within the BIM model, sharing information and coordinating their tasks. Platforms such as Autodesk Revit, Graphisoft ArchiCAD, or Bentley AECOsim Building Designer could be used to facilitate this collaboration.
Detecting clashes: BIM will help identify potential conflicts between different disciplines (structures, installations, etc.) early in the project.
Simulating different scenarios: BIM can simulate various race scenarios, analyze spectator flow, and optimize the circuit design, including improving overtaking opportunities and driver safety.
Controlling costs and timelines: BIM facilitates cost control and schedule management.
Promoting sustainability: BIM enables more informed decision-making, supporting the proposal for a carbon-neutral event in alignment with F1’s sustainability, diversity, and inclusion policies.

BIM: A Key to the Success of Madrid’s New F1 Circuit

The construction of a new F1 circuit in Madrid is a large-scale project that requires efficient management and precise coordination. BIM emerges as the ideal tool to tackle this challenge.

The new F1 circuit will not only be a venue for motorsport competition but also a driving force for economic and tourism development in Madrid. The application of BIM in this project will contribute to its success, ensuring efficient, sustainable, and high-quality construction.

The IFEMA MADRID project is a clear example of how BIM is transforming and advancing the construction industry, driving innovation and efficiency in large-scale projects. BIM’s ability to enhance collaboration, reduce errors, optimize design, and promote sustainability makes it an indispensable tool for the future of construction.