Domenicali casts doubt on Monza’s long-term place

Stefano Domenicali has cautioned that even Formula 1’s most historic race at Monza is not automatically secure.

The Italian GP venue has a deal through 2031 and has begun long-delayed upgrades, but Domenicali told Italian reporters ahead of this weekend’s event that progress is too slow.

"Monza needs to complete the second phase of the renovations," said the Imola-born chief executive. "Right now it's running at the pace of a middle-distance runner, and we need to speed things up.

"Hungary has shown that everything can be changed in a very short time - in Budapest they renovated the track in record time."

While Monza is under pressure to modernise, Domenicali indicated Imola is almost certainly heading off the calendar. "Speaking of Italy," he explained, "I say that the Automobile Club has the option of investing in only one of the two Grands Prix.

"I don't want to clip Imola's wings, because I'm from Imola, but it's right to prioritise ensuring that the Italian GP can be held in a facility commensurate with Monza's history and prestige."

With the 2025 Monza race set for Sunday, Domenicali said the real work begins immediately afterwards. "A lot of things will need to be done starting September 8th," he declared.

"The contract expires in 2031, and I want to keep the Italian GP running for the long term, with guarantees and precise plans, and without any idle chatter."

Meanwhile, promoters continue to push for calendar slots as F1 experiments with rotation in the near future, starting with Spa.

"Barcelona, Portugal, and Turkey are pushing," Domenicali revealed. "Imola is going to be tough. There aren't many slots - 1 or 2. "In the last week, Hockenheim has also shown signs of interest under its new ownership, but everyone needs to be clear about the financial, environmental, and infrastructure commitments.

"To get back in, Imola would have to invest in infrastructure, and I see that as difficult for now. I have to be a bit pragmatic."

He acknowledged that some may be startled by Monza’s vulnerability. "Monza is on the calendar alongside cities like Miami, Singapore, and Las Vegas - we need to put in the maximum effort for this GP every year.

"We need to invest fully for the fans, teams, and staff to ensure the best possible experience, constantly improve, and raise our goals. Simply fixing the underpasses and the track isn't enough."