The 2022 Formula 1 world championship will resume at the end of the month with the Belgian Grand Prix, at a historic circuit like Spa-Francorchamps which could miss out on a place on the Formula 1 calendar as early as next season. A general fear among fans that joins the criticisms directed at the top management of Formula 1, that is accused of being more inclined to bring Formula One on tracks or in nations without motorsport history (some of which even violate human rights), but towards which there is a greater economic interest.
A topic recently discussed by former Ferrari boss Stefano Domenicali, the current President and CEO of Formula 1, who wanted to explain the approach and thinking behind the way the calendars are made up, in a recent interview for Sport Bild: “Money is important everywhere, even for us – admitted the former Ferrari team principal – but we don’t just take into consideration the financial aspect; the entire package must be correct. If we only looked at the bank account, the racing calendar would certainly be different. What is certain is that I am not selling the soul of Formula 1. This is part of a normal change, and we are opening up to the whole world. On top of that, we provide the spotlight where the hosts want to present themselves well. The first successes have already been achieved. In Saudi Arabia, women have been able to drive for four years now.” – the former Ferrari boss explained.
An example of this would be Russia. Despite good funding (the Russian Grand Prix reportedly brought Formula 1 up to $50 million each season), the Sochi track is no longer included on the calendar: “I always say never say never, but in this case, I can promise: We will not have any more negotiations with them. There will be no more racing there.” – Stefano Domenicali added.
At the same time, Stefano Domenicali admitted to being surprised by the little interest expressed for the German Grand Prix, as some Formula 1 fans would like to see a race at the Hockenheimring or Nürburgring back – from all over the world:
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“It’s a mystery to me how you can’t build a business around a Grand Prix these days. But: If they get it right, we will have a race in Germany again.” – he concluded.
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