Oct.22 (GMM) Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has defended the sport’s modern presentation, saying innovation and communication are essential even as some purists complain that F1 risks becoming a pure ‘show’.
The debate reignited after Carlos Sainz criticised the Singapore GP broadcast for focusing on celebrities and drivers’ partners instead of key on-track battles. F1’s own media department later replied that “the focus is always on providing fans with the best possible images of the race,” stressing there were “no compromises on what’s happening on the track.”
By contrast, Auto Motor und Sport noted that the US Grand Prix broadcast in Austin last weekend deliberately avoided celebrity shots altogether. “Even the drivers’ girlfriends had dressed up for nothing,” the German outlet quipped, praising the extensive use of picture-in-picture technology, aerial line-comparison footage, and new drone angles over the finish line.
Speaking at the Brand Connection event organised by Deloitte in Milan, Domenicali told La Gazzetta dello Sport that innovation has been central to F1’s recent growth.
“We’ve tried to innovate in every aspect of our involvement,” he said. “From a sporting perspective, this happened with the introduction of the Sprint. The format was changed to focus more attention and take a different approach to the track.”
He said that the same philosophy guides F1’s communication strategy.
“The previous discussion applies to forms of communication, different products, and increasingly connected to young people,” said the Italian. “From this perspective, we’ve been good at interpreting the trends that have allowed this sports platform to become even bigger than before.”
When asked about the tension between F1’s heritage and its new audience, Domenicali replied: “We’ve noticed a growth in fan base. It’s clearly the core of those who have followed us and were always present. This is the ability to provide the right information in a different way.
“It means we always manage to appeal to those passionate about technological data. After all, it’s a challenge that takes place on the track, and that’s the most important aspect for us.”
Looking ahead, he said F1 must keep evolving without losing relevance.
“The challenge is to remain relevant across all dimensions,” Domenicali said. “This will see us play a leading role in the coming years – for example, in terms of technology, with sustainable fuel and new regulations.
“Another aspect will concern entertainment,” he continued. “It will need to be increasingly comprehensive to offer unique experiences to all the fans who follow us on the track and through today’s various forms of communication.”
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES