Stefano Domenicali: The season may end in Europe

      After the Hungarian Grand Prix, Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali held a press meeting during which he commented on the first half of 2026, shared news about the calendar for the remainder of the season, changes in regulations, and other future plans.

      Stefano Domenicali: "The season is becoming very, very interesting. There are many events happening on the track, and fans love it. It's just phenomenal how the situation has changed since the beginning of the season. This shows that Formula 1 is capable of responding to any technical challenges. I remember very well how at the beginning of the year some said that the title fight was already over and that Mercedes would dominate the entire season.

      In fact, this is not the case, and a lot will happen before the end of the year. Other teams will emerge that can compete for victories. There will also be other drivers who can win races. All these factors make the season very interesting, and I think that everyone will be following what happens until the end of the year. In short, we are looking at the second half of the season with great optimism."

      Domenicali commented on the return of the Sepang circuit to the calendar, which will host the Bahrain Grand Prix, and spoke about plans if the situation in the Middle East does not allow races to be held in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

      "Together we found a new way to hold the Grand Prix in Malaysia," says Stefano Domenicali. "This is an example of cooperation and the willingness to think broader than usual. I want to thank the Kingdom of Bahrain, the organizers of the Grand Prix, and the Kingdom of Malaysia for seeing the opportunity to bring back a circuit that was once part of Formula 1.

      As for the end of the season, we are in contact with all stakeholders. Our structure allows us to leave ourselves maximum time to understand how the situation will develop and make a decision at the right moment.

      This will happen no earlier than mid-September. At the moment, we believe that the stages in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are confirmed. But, of course, if by mid-September the situation does not clarify as we deem necessary, we will make a decision.

      In this regard, I want to confirm that if holding the two aforementioned races proves impossible, the season will conclude in Europe."

      Reflecting on the 2027 season calendar, the Formula 1 president stated: "For now, the calendar that will be presented, say, in the fall, looks like a regular plan. But, of course, if the situation in the Middle East does not resolve, we have options.

      The decisive moment will be the end of the year, so we still have plenty of time for adjustments. We have prepared several different options that will allow us to hold 24 Grands Prix next year regardless."

      Stefano Domenicali also said a few words about the technical regulations: "The effect of the changes already made has been exceptionally positive. At the same time, it is natural that in sports it is necessary to discuss what is happening and listen to the opinions of all drivers, teams, and power unit manufacturers.

      I think the right decisions have been made regarding the regulations. It is good that the FIA is willing to listen to the comments of manufacturers and drivers. I think the drivers who have already tested the changes in next year's regulations on the simulator understand that we are moving in the right direction."

      The success of Kimi Antonelli has become one of the main topics of the first half of the season. Stefano Domenicali talked about how important the young Italian's victories are for Formula 1: "He is young, has very little experience so far, and is open to everything that happens to him.

      Thanks to Kimi, we have gained many new fans, as he interacts wonderfully with the audience. From a sporting perspective, he has proven to be very strong. It is worth noting that without two retirements due to car problems, his lead in the championship would have been even greater. He has shown that he is very stable.

      And, of course, for Italian fans, his successes are especially important. The last Italian driver to win something truly significant did so a long time ago. Therefore, Kimi has brought a new dimension to the championship.

      Today he has great relationships with other drivers. Of course, the situation may change if he wins the title, but that is the nature of our sport. But, as I said, I am very pleased with how he has performed in Formula 1. I have known him for many years, and he is incredibly important for the future and for everything we do together."

      Domenicali commented on the possible filming of a sequel to the Formula 1 feature film: "Work is underway. We need to choose the right time and the appropriate story, but we plan to shoot a sequel. I will let you know if and when any information appears."