Domenicali explains why F1 needs street races in Las Vegas to race in Spa
F1 News
- Ludo van Denderen
Max Verstappen is the most outspoken Formula 1 driver on the subject: adding brand new (often street) circuits to the F1 calendar. It's no secret that the three-time world champion dislikes tracks like Las Vegas or Miami. The Dutchman would much rather drive his races on historic tracks like Monza and Spa-Francorchamps. But you cannot have one without the other, argues Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
When Verstappen was asked recently which circuit he thinks should be added to the F1 calendar, he mentioned Mugello. The Italian circuit is a great example of an old-school track, where any mistake can mercilessly end up in the always nearby gravel trap. Moreover, Mugello is also a real driver's circuit, where a driver has to work hard to go around.
'Monza and Spa thanks to Vegas on F1 calendar'
But not Mugello, but Las Vegas or Jeddah were given a permanent place on the F1 calendar in recent years. Places where Formula can make a lot of money. "Races like Las Vegas, Miami or Jeddah pay for Monza and Spa," Domenicali said about this in Motorsport Aktuell. "Without these revenues, there are no more classics."
Incidentally, a long-term future for both Spa and Monza is not assured. The contracts with the circuit in the Belgian Ardennes and of the Italian Grand Prix expire after the 2025 season. About the latter, Domenicali said there could be no further talks on a new commitment until the track's owners set in motion the promised renovation.