Domenicali: F1 teams are now valued in the billions.

      "Ten years ago, there were teams that could be acquired for just a pound."

      Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali states that even the smallest teams on the grid are now valued at a minimum of $2 billion, while he dismisses the possibility of adding a 12th team in the near future. In an interview with Corriere della Sera prior to the Monza race, Domenicali proudly pointed out the commercial and demographic advancements of Formula 1. "We're witnessing record attendance at nearly every event," he noted. "The audience has changed—while there is still a strong passion for cars, it now exists within a broader setting."

      "There's music, driver autograph sessions, and a growing presence of younger fans." When asked about the current cost of entering Formula 1, he replied, "For a 'small' team, it requires at least $2 billion. For medium to large teams, expect a minimum of $4 to $6 billion." He remarked, "Ten years ago, some teams were practically given away for a pound."

      Despite ongoing interest from potential new entrants, Domenicali believes there is no urgent need to expand beyond the current 11 teams. "In the medium term, there’s no availability," the Italian stated. "The future is uncertain, but I don’t foresee it being a significant issue in the next five years." He also emphasized Formula 1’s ongoing efforts to attract younger and more diverse audiences, including partnerships with Lego and Disney. "I’m not concerned with minor controversies; I focus on the overall vision," he asserted.

      Domenicali mentioned that the United States is now "definitely one of the leading" markets, while affirming that Europe is showing strong recovery and that China remains a key area for growth. "We have a plan to attract a million people to the Shanghai Grand Prix in four years," he stated. "We must always think big." He added that Formula 1’s economic impact now reaches far beyond just race promoters and teams. "F1 has evolved into much more than a sport," Domenicali expressed. "It has become a significant economic and political force."