Stefano Domenicali, the president and CEO of Formula 1, reflected on the phenomenal 2025 season full of intense battles and unexpected twists, while also offering insights on what to expect in 2026. This year’s drivers’ championship was decided only at the final race, with a three-way fight for the title that lasted all season long.
Domenicali on the 2025 season
“It was a phenomenal year. What was particularly incredible for me is that there were three different moments when everyone thought the championship was already decided,” said Stefano Domenicali, looking back at the 2025 season. “Before the summer break, it seemed Oscar Piastri would become world champion. Then in October, it looked like Lando Norris would win. And by mid-November, Max Verstappen was on a mission and it seemed he would take it.”
“Every race was full of excitement, and we had so much to share with our fans around the world. It was a year of new fans joining the club, existing fans staying connected, and incredible new projects like F1 The Movie. I want to take this opportunity to thank all stakeholders and everyone who follows this sport and plays a role in what we are doing. Everyone is crucial to the growth we are achieving.”
“Congratulations to Lando [Norris], Oscar [Piastri], and Max [Verstappen]. In my eyes, they are all winners and contributed to an incredible season. I am confident they will continue to entertain us in the years to come, even while challenging the next generation,” the Italian manager added.
“We also had an incredible year for rookies. They demonstrated the grit and determination needed to succeed in Formula 1. One notable example was in Australia. Isack Hadjar made a mistake during the formation lap, and many said he wasn’t ready. Fast forward to today: next season he will move to Red Bull alongside four-time champion Max Verstappen,” continued the F1 president. “Formula 1 requires resilient people. There is no other sport that imposes the same kind of pressure. If you rise to the challenge, you will become one of the leading figures in our sport.” – the former Ferrari team boss pointed out.
Stefano Domenicali and the bright future of Formula 1
Stefano Domenicali also shared his vision for the coming years: “It’s an exciting time for Formula 1. Growth is strong, and everyone is asking, ‘What happens next?’ We will continue to push unconventional ideas and aim to reach a level that has traditionally been outside the norm for F1.”
“Naturally, we want to keep the focus on racing. The sport is our heartbeat, and that’s why new regulations will take effect next year. We will see completely new cars with revamped power units, powered by cutting-edge sustainable fuels,” explained the CEO. “The team lineup will be shaken up. The hierarchy will be uncertain. Ultimately, the track will show each team’s true position. I’m fairly certain the standings after the first race won’t match the year-end results, so development will be fast and intense.”
“This is my fifth year in this role, and reflecting on the evolution we’ve seen is incredible. We are working hard to make the off-track experience even more spectacular through entertainment, fan zones, sporting initiatives, and music to support the main show on track.”
“This year, Las Vegas showed what’s possible. The city wasn’t used to hosting an event like ours, but everyone came together, and now it feels like we’ve been in Las Vegas for 30 years. Next year, Madrid will join the family, and we are considering adding more countries. Many want to be part of our sport. We are working hard to improve the calendar so that it is more sustainable in terms of race flow as well.”
“I can’t wait for the future. Thank you for all your commitment and for the warmth and love we feel from the fans. Stay tuned!” concluded the F1 president.
Leave a Reply