Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1, has responded assertively to drivers’ complaints regarding the increasing demands of the sport’s schedule. Max Verstappen recently highlighted the added “stress” that the sprint weekend format imposes, particularly on team mechanics—a sentiment echoed by Lando Norris, who remarked, “It’s not healthy for them. It’s not sustainable.”
The drivers’ recent grievances add to ongoing concerns over the burgeoning F1 calendar, which has expanded to 24 races annually and could include even more in the future. Domenicali, speaking to Italy’s Autosprint, did not mince words: “I talk to them,” he said, “and if you don’t want to drive in Formula 1, you are not obliged to do so.”
He further emphasized the importance of respecting fans’ expectations. “It’s a question of respect for the fans. They want to see them race and it’s a responsibility that we have towards all our fans, our partners, promoters, sponsors, broadcasters, everyone. We need heroes who enjoy what they do, but I’m sure they’re having fun.”
Dr. Helmut Marko of Red Bull also contributed to the conversation. While acknowledging the benefits to spectators and organizers alike, he admitted a preference for the traditional race format. “It (the sprint format) is simply a bonus for the spectators and therefore for the organiser that the fans are offered qualifying on Friday and a race on Saturday,” he explained to Speed Week. However, he added, “On the sporting side, I’m more of a fan of the traditional process. So as an organiser yes. As a racing fan? No.”
The debate over sprint events continues, with proposals to double their number from six to twelve annually. When asked about the possibility, Domenicali was open: “Why not?” he posed, “They are great, because that way there is excitement every day. We have a duty to ensure that there is action on the track every day. Out of respect for the fans who come here,” he declared.
Marko also touched on the potential expansion of points-paying positions to the top twelve drivers from 2025, to be discussed at the F1 Commission today. “It’s because a two-class society has developed,” he observed. “If the drivers of the best five teams have no technical problems and Mr. (Lance) Stroll has a normal day, the other five racing teams get no points. The cost cap has brought the field closer together, which leads to extremely exciting multi-way battles in the midfield. This should be rewarded in some way,” he concluded.
GMM
