Stefano Domenicali on F1 calendar prospects: "We could even have 32 races!"

Stefano Domenicali on F1 calendar prospects: “We could even have 32 races!”. Stefano Domenicali on future F1 calendars.

The recent comments of former Scuderia Ferrari boss and current Formula 1 chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali have clearly divided fans. Speaking in recent days on the fact that he feels the free practice format is not very useful, Stefano Domenicali, ahead of the Australian Grand Prix – also spoke of the possible extension of the Formula 1 calendar which “could even include 32 grands prix”, according to the Italian manager.

The last few years have seen an enterprising Formula 1, with policies aimed at improving the show and a clear direction that has focused on the overseas public: “About three years ago we were considering whether to stay in the United States. One in three fans who go to a Grand Prix is there for the first time”. Today Formula One is instead very attentive to the needs of the American public.

Furthermore, Stefano Domenicali spoke about the choices made by Formula 1 in terms of calendar in recent seasons. The current championship, which will in any case be the longest in history, should have hosted 24 events, before the Chinese Grand Prix was cancelled for the fourth year in a row at the beginning of December due to strict Covid measures. The Italian manager commented on the fact that the top management was not able to replace Shanghai with a different location: “It wouldn’t have been worth it. The economic benefit of a substitute event would not have been beneficial due to logistical and sustainability considerations.” – Stefano Domenicali pointed out.

The “expansive” approach of Formula 1 over the last few years has led to such a popularity of the sport as to allow a hypothetical championship of over 30 events, Stefano Domenicali confirmed: “Already today we could have more than 30, even 32 Grands Prix, because everyone wants to host a race.” – the former Ferrari boss concluded.