Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has raised a flag of caution for Italy’s iconic racing legacy, hinting at a tough road ahead for maintaining both the Monza and Imola grands prix on the sport’s expanding calendar. In a candid interview with Rai’s “La Politica nel Pallone,” Domenicali reflected on F1’s journey through the pandemic and the evolving landscape of the sport.
As the sport he leads flourished post-pandemic, Domenicali acknowledged the critical role Imola played during this period. “Covid-19 could have been deadly for Formula 1,” he said. “We have managed to build growth step by step which has led us, to date, to be one of the most followed sports platforms in the world.”
Despite F1’s booming popularity, Domenicali is aware of the challenges posed by Red Bull and Max Verstappen’s dominance. “The season just concluded was extremely positive for Formula 1 as a whole,” Domenicali insists, “despite the dominance of Max Verstappen. We have grown in attention, we have conquered new markets, and we have developed new products.”
Domenicali also spoke about the controversial introduction of new elements like Saturday sprint racing, which will be tweaked in 2024. “The data shows that there is this interest, because the concept of days dedicated only to free practice does not give the right inspiration. All sports are changing. Everyone has to pay attention to what is happening in the world.”
Addressing long-time fans’ concerns about F1’s evolving nature, Domenicali stated, “We must have respect for those who grew up on bread and Formula 1, because they have always followed us. We must accept the criticism, if it is done in a constructive way, whilst also exciting new fans.”
He emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between tradition and innovation. “Through the most expert (people), we must educate these new fans in the values of tradition so they can understand what is behind Formula 1. But tradition is something that has value if it is updated to the future. Otherwise, it remains something seen only in black and white. This is a central theme of our attention.”
On the topic of Verstappen’s dominance, Domenicali offered his perspective: “Our sport is always characterized by cycles – a combination of a very strong car and an extraordinary driver. With Max, we have a mature driver in race and qualifying management. In that way, he reminds me of Michael Schumacher in not leaving anything for anyone else.”
Reflecting on the decade since Schumacher’s ski accident, Domenicali shared personal sentiments. “It seems like yesterday,” he said. “These are episodes that change your life. Out of respect for him and his family, we must stay close to him as this difficult situation continues. What is between myself and the family remains private, but living like this for ten years is something you would never wish even on your worst enemy.”
Addressing F1’s increasingly tense relationship with the FIA, Domenicali noted the blurring lines as the sport expands. “The more F1 grows,” he said, “the more the differentiation between the FIA and F1 disappears. We need a sports platform that has a diversification of expertise, while everyone examines their conscience.”
Finally, Domenicali commented on the sustainability of Italy’s two grands prix. “We are negotiating,” he said, “but we need elements to carry this negotiation forward. I often hear from Angelo Sticchi Damiani, but it is December. The work in Monza was supposed to start immediately after the grand prix – now it should start shortly.
“My push is a constructive push. We must keep pace with the times. In 2020, Imola had an extraordinary opportunity and were ready for the unexpected call. The flood tragedy then didn’t allow us to race so we can’t wait to race there again, but it’s all about understanding the desire to invest in F1 as a racing platform. Entertainment and business can no longer be on a private level. It is our country that must make a precise choice,” Domenicali concluded, highlighting the pivotal moment for Italian motorsport.
