Domenicali: Italy Returns to the Forefront of F1
Stefano Domenicali states that Italy's significance in Formula 1 is growing, as Milan has been officially designated to host a major three-day season launch for 2027. Additionally, Kimi Antonelli is contributing to a renewed interest in the sport domestically. Following a day of speculation from F1, the event known as F1 Live Milan has been confirmed for February 18-20. This will include a three-day festival for fans and a special night show on February 18 featuring drivers and team leaders from all 11 teams.
"The unveiling of the 2027 World Championship in Milan symbolizes Italy’s escalating importance," remarked Italian F1 CEO Domenicali to Sky Italia. He also commented to La Gazzetta dello Sport that the nation increasingly sees F1 as more than just a sporting event. "The country has recognized the significance of Formula 1 today, including its political implications," noted the former Ferrari team principal. "Our sport is viewed as a modern sporting platform with a wider impact than before, leading to Italy’s resurgence on the world stage."
This revival is partly due to championship leader Antonelli, who, according to Domenicali, is captivating a notably younger Italian demographic. "Kimi is attracting a fresh audience as he is a crossover figure," he said. "He possesses an Italian identity, is highly likable, and has a playful personality that makes him easy to connect with." Domenicali characterized the progress seen with the 20-year-old as "impressive" and "exponential," while emphasizing that F1 must work on converting these new fans into dedicated supporters.
In 2027, Italy will experience another boost when Monza hosts a Sprint event for the first time. Domenicali confirmed that while the total number of Sprints will rise from six, it will remain "below half" of the race calendar. Additionally, Imola is prepared for a possible unexpected comeback sooner if the ongoing crisis in the Middle East impacts the conclusion of the current season, although Domenicali refrained from confirming the increasingly referred-to contingency plan. "We have confirmations from Qatar and Abu Dhabi, but I won’t comment on anything I can’t discuss openly," he stated. "We are keeping track of the situation and are in ongoing communication. If conditions hinder our ability to ensure safety and the successful execution of the event, alternative decisions will need to be considered."
Other articles
Sainz is already leveraging the 2026 challenges for Williams' future.
Formula 1 | Carlos Sainz has utilized a portion of his Monza weekend to prepare for 2027, while Williams acknowledges that their struggling current car will not be (…)
Piastri at ease regarding his future with extended F1 contracts.
Formula 1 | Oscar Piastri states that the increasing trend of longer contracts in Formula 1 does not affect his perspective on his own future, despite the growing clarity regarding (…)
Piastri remains calm about his future in light of extended F1 contracts.
Formula 1 | Oscar Piastri stated that the increasing trend of longer contracts in Formula 1 does not influence his perspective on his own future, even with the rising certainty surrounding (…)
Gasly states that the battle in Monaco "isn't over yet."
Formula 1 | Both Pierre Gasly and Flavio Briatore have suggested that Alpine might not have resolved the legal consequences stemming from the Monaco GP, even with the FIA's involvement.
Mekies stated that Hadjar is now unlikely to compete in Madrid.
Formula 1 | Red Bull's chief Laurent Mekies has essentially indicated that Isack Hadjar is now improbable to participate in the upcoming Madrid GP next weekend. L'Equipe had (…)
Gasly states that the battle in Monaco "isn't over yet."
Formula 1 | Pierre Gasly and Flavio Briatore have suggested that Alpine might still face legal repercussions from the Monaco GP, even with the FIA's involvement.
Domenicali: Italy Returns to the Forefront of F1
Formula 1 | Stefano Domenicali states that Italy's significance in Formula 1 is growing, as Milan has been officially announced as the host for a major three-day event in the 2027 season (…)