The head of ACI promises upgrades for Monza despite a warning from Domenicali.

      "He urged everyone to finish and enhance the ongoing work."

      11 September 2025 - 12:39

      Geronimo La Russa, the newly elected president of Italy’s Automobile Club (ACI), emphasizes that Monza is committed to maintaining its position on the Formula 1 calendar. La Russa attended his inaugural Italian Grand Prix as the head of the organizing body last weekend, shortly after F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali cautioned that Monza must expedite its renovation efforts or risk losing its long-standing slot. "President Stefano Domenicali is very familiar with Monza, including its strengths and weaknesses," La Russa stated to La Gazzetta dello Sport. "He expressed satisfaction with the progress made, even in the presence of Sports Minister Andrea Abodi, but he urged everyone to finalize and enhance the ongoing work."

      As new circuits, nations, and hosts around the globe vie for calendar slots from Liberty Media, La Russa acknowledged that Italy cannot solely depend on its historical significance. "Monza is making significant progress," he remarked. "We’ve fulfilled our commitments, but much remains to be done," he added. "Formula 1 is an event that everyone desires – we must continue to collaborate as a team and showcase the organizational capabilities that Italy has. Monza has a distinctive history, but we cannot become complacent."

      La Russa outlined the upcoming steps, prioritizing facilities and fan experience ahead of the 2026 race. "The new press room is vital for journalists and for enhancing spaces and emergency exits," he mentioned. "Additionally, we need to expand and improve the grandstands and hospitality areas, ensuring better restrooms and access. Our aim is to accommodate more and more people under suitable conditions." He also proposed that Monza could advocate for changes that would be to its advantage. "There must always be improvements," La Russa stated. "I hope the Grand Prix can return to its traditional date in the second week of September, which would simplify organization."

      However, the ACI leader emphasized that the immediate priority is to extend Monza’s local funding concession, which is set to expire in 2028. "The most pressing option is to continue the discussions, which are already progressing very well, with the park consortium and the Lombardy Region regarding the renewal of the concession," La Russa clarified. "A long-term perspective is crucial for planning investments and finalizing the new contract with F1."