What must traditional circuits do to maintain their place on the Formula 1 calendar in the future? Particularly, the European Grands Prix are increasingly under pressure, as various countries line up to host their own home race. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali warns that historical value is not enough to secure a spot in the premier class, as newer fans care less about the history of the circuits.
The popularity of Formula 1 continues to grow, and more and more countries are lining up to host their own Grand Prix. For instance, Rwanda, South Africa, and Thailand have all expressed interest in bringing Formula 1 to their countries. South Korea is also interested in hosting a Grand Prix. With so much interest in organizing a new Grand Prix, European races are increasingly at risk of disappearing. For example, the Dutch GP is scheduled for the last time on the Formula 1 calendar in 2026, and Circuit Barcelona-Catalunya is also at risk of disappearing from the calendar in two years, following the GP Emilia-Romagna.
Historical Value Not Enough
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali warns traditional circuits that they do not automatically have the right to remain in the premier class. “Of course, it’s a plus if a Grand Prix has this historical value, but it’s not enough,” explains the Italian. According to Domenicali, new fans of motorsport do not distinguish between older and newer circuits.”It’s an element that’s important for people like me, who have been following Formula 1 since their childhood,” Domenicali continues. “But for many young people who follow Formula 1 today – so the data tells us – it makes no difference to them whether the race is in Monte Carlo or on the new circuit in Las Vegas. So this is not a fundamental element for us.”
Investments
The Italian also immediately explains how historical Grands Prix can maintain their place in the premier class. “The history must be supported by a structure that looks to the future, that enables investments in infrastructure to improve the circuit – since tickets are not exactly cheap – to provide services to fans at all levels.” According to Domenicali, it is unlikely that the number of Formula 1 races in the season will grow beyond the current number of 24.
