Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has added some pressure to the organisers of the Italian and Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, stating that the contract renewals indeed are being negotiated, but weren’t agreed upon as of yet. This is in contrast with the claims of ACI president Angelo Sticchi Damiani, who said both races were extended until 2030, bar some minor details.
Domenicali said to Italian TV station RAI that the promised renovation works on the track Monza have not yet started.
“We are negotiating [the renewal], but we need active elements to bring forward these discussions because without certain things, we cannot talk about it. I speak often with President Sticchi Damiani, so I know that ACI is well aware of this.
“However, it’s December and the renovation work that was supposed to start immediately after the GP in Monza is yet to begin. It should be starting soon, we hope. Mine is a positive push because internal bureaucracies cannot halt projects.”
The race in Imola isn’t confirmed either, but despite the race being cancelled this year due to the floods in the region the former Ferrari boss is eager to return.
“In 2020 [during Covid], Imola had — and seized — an incredible opportunity: it was ready to take what was an unexpected call. The tragedy of the flood prevented us from racing this year, so we can’t wait to do it again.”
So a deal is not made yet, and according to Domenicali the historical status of these races is not enough to keep them on the calendar. He therefore urges the politicians in his home country to step up and make the necessary decisions.
“The point is trying to stay in step with the times. We need to keep on investing without relying on the historical significance of what has been done up until now.
“It’s all about understanding whether our country has the will to invest in Formula 1 as a sports, promotional and business platform, because F1 can no longer be managed solely on a private level.
“All the countries that host races invest directly to foster growth, in this case it’s our country that needs to take a decision. Investments are needed.
“Unfortunately, we are an extraordinary country, but when it comes to sports infrastructure we have many limitations that must be overcome to give our country the opportunity to host not only two but even one Grand Prix for the future, as this becomes rather crucial.”
