F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali believes that Germany deserves a place on the calendar and wants to discuss a possible return with the country. Since the coronavirus pandemic, our eastern neighbors have not organized a Grand Prix, but there has been a desire to return in Hockenheim for some time. The circuit disappeared from the rotation due to financial problems and an alleged lack of interest.
Before Germany disappeared from the calendar, a Grand Prix was planned almost every year – since 1950 the country had only missed four editions. Formula 1 alternated between the Hockenheim circuit and the legendary Nürburgring. Despite Germany producing great world champions such as Sebastian Vettel and Nico Rosberg in recent decades, interest in the sport seems to have declined. Falling viewer numbers and financial problems at both circuits eventually put an end to the German GP.
Competition
However, Domenicali sees opportunities to give Germany a place on the F1 calendar in the future, as he stated in an interview with BILD. “Money is of secondary importance for now,” said the Italian. “The most important thing is to know who we need to talk to. We are open to discussions. Germany simply belongs on the calendar. So if someone is seriously interested, they will find a way to contact me.”
The competition for a place on the Formula 1 calendar, which cannot expand beyond 24 Grands Prix, is however greater than ever. Countries are lining up to bring in the premier class. Thus, Germany may have to compete with countries like Thailand, Portugal, and South Africa. “Time is pressing,” Domenicali warned. “There is a long waiting list of companies and even countries, with their prime ministers and kings, who absolutely want a race.”
