The national flags are waving around the world. The 2024 Formula 1 World Championship, consisting of 24 races, is the longest in the history of the sport. However, since 2016, there have been at least 20 races on the calendar, with exceptions in 2020 due to the impact of COVID-19. The demand for races is currently high.
During a conversation with selected international press before the 2024 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix weekend, 58-year-old Italian Domenicali discussed hot topics in the F1 paddock. He expressed his desire to keep a maximum of 25 races on the calendar, as exceeding this number could compromise the current momentum. Many countries are showing interest in joining Formula 1, which presents opportunities and challenges when it comes to scheduling races.
Domenicali also mentioned the resurgence of interest in Formula 1 in Europe, especially in Madrid. This unexpected development has revitalized the sport in the Old Continent. He also highlighted the improvements made to the Hungaroring circuit, which demonstrate Formula 1’s ability to elevate facilities that have remained stagnant for years.
Investment, collaboration, and long-term planning are crucial for the future of Formula 1. Without these elements, there is a risk of losing the sport. Important decisions regarding contracts with Grand Prix promoters must be made by the end of this year. However, the overall health of Formula 1 is currently positive.
Formula 1 is now the most significant global sports platform, surpassing even the World Cup and the Olympics. Unlike those events, Formula 1 is present throughout the year, providing continuous excitement and entertainment.
In the 2024 season, there are six sprint race weekends on the Formula 1 calendar. The first two races took place in China and Miami. However, the popularity of this format is a topic of debate, with opinions divided between those in favor and those against.
However, the head of Formula 1 acknowledged: “We are aware that there is also a more conservative segment of the audience that has been following Formula 1 for a considerable period of time and does not particularly appreciate this style.
“In terms of appeal, there is no doubt that the ‘sprint’ approach is the right one. I believe that the format modification implemented this year satisfied the requests of the ‘traditionalists’ by keeping qualifying on Saturday afternoon and opening the parc fermé after the sprint race.
“For my part, I will wait until the end of this season to evaluate the feedback, but I do not believe we will go back. MotoGP took a radical step by introducing the sprint format for every weekend, while we intend to adopt it gradually.
“I am convinced that nowadays, a Friday without any official qualifying diminishes its attractiveness compared to sprint Fridays, where a qualifying session takes place. I reiterate, our approach has been cautious to determine if the direction we are taking is the right one.
“We have addressed certain crucial aspects that have arisen in previous years and, at the end of this season,” Domenicali revealed.
In conclusion, the former team principal of the Ferrari Formula 1 team (2008-2014) also addressed another controversial topic: “Regarding the points system in the World Championship standings, there have been requests from certain teams to increase the number of points beyond the tenth position.
“We are conducting simulations, but as has always happened in the past when the points allocation system was changed, we must be very cautious about possible disadvantages. Initially, everyone is satisfied, but over time, criticisms arise.
“However, I can confirm that we will not implement a system that awards points to all drivers who start,” insisted Domenicali, who was appointed by Liberty Media to succeed Chase Carey as CEO of the Formula 1 Group. Domenicali has held this position since the beginning of the 2021 Formula 1 season. (Reported by Agnes Carlier from Imola)
© 2024
Last year, the world of sports witnessed some of the greatest achievements and exciting moments in history. From broken records to inspiring stories, athletes captivated us and gave us reasons to celebrate. As we bid farewell to 2023, it’s time to reflect on the highlights and look ahead to what’s to come in the world of sports in 2024.
One of the most memorable moments of last year was the surprising victory of the football team from the small nation of X in the World Championship. Against all odds, they defeated football powerhouses and clinched the title. It was a story of overcoming adversity and determination that inspired people around the world.
Another highlight from last year was X’s dominant performance at the Summer Olympics. They won a total of X medals, setting a new record for the country. The athletes from X displayed incredible skill and talent in a variety of sports, leaving the world in awe of their achievements.
In the world of tennis, X continued to dominate the courts. She won another Grand Slam and became the world number one. Her skill and determination have made her one of the greatest players of all time. Tennis fans are eager to see what she will achieve in 2024.
In the world of motorsport, X shone on the tracks. He won the Formula 1 world championship, showing impressive skill and speed. His victory was a testament to his dedication and talent, and he is considered one of the greatest drivers of all time.
Aside from these highlights, the world of sports is full of inspiring stories and exciting moments. As we look forward to the year 2024, we can’t wait to see what’s to come. Athletes continue to surprise and inspire us, and we are excited for more unforgettable moments in the world of sports.
