Dec.18 (GMM) Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has pushed back against criticism from drivers about the growing physical and logistical demands of the modern calendar, insisting the sport’s 24-race schedule remains modest by global sporting standards.
With the season’s final stretch featuring long-haul trips and time-zone swings across Asia, the Americas and the Middle East, several drivers – including Fernando Alonso – have questioned whether the current format is sustainable.
Domenicali, however, says the criticism is being overstated.
“I don’t think it’s a criticism,” Domenicali told L’Equipe. “Of course, the end of the season is tough, but these are incredible professionals who love what they do. If you look at other sports around the world, they have 80 or 100 events per season – we have 24.”
The Italian added that extensive travel is inseparable from Formula 1’s identity as a global championship. “As a global sport, it’s part of the job to travel and experience all these amazing places,” he said.
Domenicali also defended the championship’s push into new markets such as the United States and the Middle East, while acknowledging that the demands are unique compared to more regionally based sports.
Addressing Liberty Media’s long-term ambitions, he pointed to Las Vegas – another criticised element of the modern schedule – as an example of a project still in its growth phase. “For every race, we work constantly with the promoters to raise the bar,” Domenicali said.
“We’ve raced in Las Vegas for three years now, and this last one has been the best to date. Our intention is to be there long-term,” he added. “We’ve just started in Las Vegas, so please be patient.”
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