José Mourinho visits Madring track as F1 marks capital’s new Grand Prix

By Vancouver Television Sports Desk

Real Madrid manager José Mourinho was at Madrid’s Madring circuit this weekend ahead of Formula 1’s new capital Grand Prix. In an interview with F1.com at the event, Mourinho discussed his long-standing interest in Formula 1, how he compares the sport to football, and why the capital’s newly built track has personal significance.

Mourinho told F1.com that it was his first time attending this Grand Prix at Madring. He said he has been following the build “every day” as the circuit neared opening because he works close to Real Madrid’s training base.

He also described his broader motorsport experience. Mourinho told F1.com he has made multiple paddock visits in previous seasons, including last year’s British Grand Prix, and said his current visit includes time around the circuit and meetings with prominent figures in Formula 1.

On the link between the sports, Mourinho said he sees a shared theme of “huge pressure” at the top level. He added that he believes Formula 1 can feel “one step ahead” in how it handles big moments, and argued that football can learn from what he described as drivers staying together and completing media obligations before being in the car shortly after, “ready to fight for their lives.”

Mourinho told F1.com that he asks questions of Stefano Domenicali as part of his learning about Formula 1 leadership. He said he could not attend Saturday activities because of match commitments, but said he enjoys coming for qualifying and free practice to get closer and interact with people in the paddock. Mourinho added that he intends to return in future and said his relationship with the paddock and its personalities is “continuing to grow.”