The future of Formula 1 in Italy, specifically the fate of the Italian Grand Prix races at Monza and the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola, has come under scrutiny as both venues’ contracts expire in 2025. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has shared insights into the prospects of an extension and the challenges of maintaining two races in Italy.
Italy has a rich history in Formula 1, with Monza and Imola holding special places in the hearts of racing enthusiasts. However, with F1’s calendar approaching capacity and the emergence of new markets, it seems unlikely that Italy can retain both races beyond their current contract durations.
Domenicali emphasized the need to evaluate Italy’s resources and capacity to host two Grand Prix events. He stated, “We will have to understand whether there are the resources to keep two Grands Prix [in Italy] on the calendar or whether we will concentrate on just one.”
He expressed gratitude to the organizers at Imola for their commitment during challenging times, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Monza, a historic venue in the world of motorsport, is set to undergo upgrades to meet the standards of newer racetracks. The improvements include work on access tunnels beneath the circuit to enhance logistics, as well as upgrades to hospitality and grandstand facilities.
Domenicali, while eager to preserve the historic Monza race, emphasized the importance of the venue meeting modern expectations. He mentioned, “The historical value of Monza is undeniable, but we must also keep up with the times in terms of services, which must be in line with the prices paid by those who come to the circuit.”
The renovation work on Monza’s facilities is expected to commence after the 2023 Grand Prix, with a focus on showcasing improvements by the following year.
In summary, the future of Formula 1 in Italy is under discussion, with a focus on whether both Monza and Imola can continue to host races beyond 2025. Stefano Domenicali recognizes the importance of evaluating resources and the need for upgrades to historic venues like Monza while maintaining competitive standards. The coming year will bring clarity to the future of Italian Grand Prix events.
