'This is why Domenicali didn't show up at Red Bull launch RB19'

Stefano Domenicali was supposed to appear on stage during the presentation of Red Bull Racing's RB19, but in the end the Liberty Media sporting director was conspicuous by his absence. Domenicali was called on stage during the show, but thus did not show up. Meanwhile, it seems clear why the 57-year-old Italian did not come to the fore last Friday.

Presenters Marty Smith and Giselle Zarur thought Christian Horner, Ford CEO Jim Farley, Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez, and Daniel Ricciardo would be accompanied by Domenicali. The top man was nowhere to be seen, which made for an awkward moment on stage.

The American ESPN has been told by a source that Domenicali did attend, but ultimately decided at the last minute that he did not want to be in the spotlight at a Red Bull event after all. On reflection, he would have found it inappropriate, especially also because it might have given the wrong impression to rivals like Ferrari and Mercedes. Indeed, at the car unveilings of these teams, Domenicali is not there.

Domenicali was present in New York because Red Bull and Ford announced they will work together from 2026. The American brand will thus return to Formula 1 and, as part of this, Domenicali would say a few words as Formula 1 boss.