Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali has addressed concerns about whether having three races in the United States would lead to a “cannibalisation” of the sport. With Austin and Miami already established on the F1 calendar, the addition of a third race in Las Vegas later in the year has raised questions about whether the events would compete with one another.
However, Domenicali dismissed these fears, stating that the sheer size of the country and the unique character of each race would ensure that they do not overlap or detract from one another’s popularity.
During a recent media call, the F1 chief executive emphasized that each race has its own distinct personality and cultural approach, as well as different segments of fans. He also acknowledged that there had been doubts about whether F1 should even remain in the US market just a few years ago.
“Thanks to the stubbornness, we are here,” he said. “We had two races last year, and this year, we are adding another one. So in the blink of an eye, we are getting there.”
Domenicali added that he did not foresee any cannibalisation of the US races, and that the differences between them would ensure that each event is unique.
“I don’t see any kind of cannibalisation, everyone is different, everything is different. I don’t see any problem there,” he said.
F1 is looking to capitalize on the growing popularity of the sport in the US, with an expanding calendar of events in the country. The addition of Las Vegas to the calendar, in particular, is seen as a significant move, given the city’s reputation as a hub for entertainment and sports.
