Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali has provided an assessment of the championship’s current status, addressing concerns surrounding the 2026 power units and the sport’s future trajectory. His comments come during the summer break between the Hungarian and Dutch Grands Prix. Domenicali maintains that Formula 1 is in a robust commercial position, citing record audience figures and sold-out events globally.
Domenicali acknowledged that the first season of Formula 1’s new technical era has drawn criticism from some drivers and teams. He believes the on-track product is delivering what fans desire. The primary challenge now involves simplifying the sport for new audiences, focusing on competition, technology, enjoyment, and entertainment.
A significant point of contention has been the new hybrid power units introduced for the 2026 season. These regulations increased the power of the MGU-K while removing the MGU-H. Drivers, notably Max Verstappen, have voiced concerns regarding car behaviour and energy management under these rules.
Verstappen has specifically highlighted that the new regulations limit a driver’s ability to make a difference, stating that gaining time in corners can be penalised on subsequent straights due to energy management requirements. He believes this neutralises lap time and makes it harder for drivers to stand out.
Domenicali, however, suggests that these discussions are largely internal to the F1 ‘ecosystem’ and that most fans are not interested in intricate technical details such as ‘clipping’. He stressed that the sport must still consider input from competitors and manufacturers.
The current regulations were decided five to seven years ago, a point Domenicali emphasised. He supports the agreed changes, asserting that drivers should be free to express opinions constructively, with fan priority remaining paramount.
The 2026 calendar has faced disruptions due to geopolitical developments. The Bahrain Grand Prix was relocated to Sepang, Malaysia, and held from October 2-4, retaining its original identity. This move was a direct response to ongoing instability in the Middle East.
The fate of the season’s final two races, scheduled for Qatar and Abu Dhabi, remains uncertain. Formula 1 is monitoring the regional situation, with a decision expected by mid-September. Contingency plans include concluding the season in Europe, with Imola being one of the venues under consideration.
The World Endurance Championship (WEC) previously announced it would not race in the Gulf region this year due to similar concerns, providing a precedent for F1’s cautious approach. Domenicali expressed confidence in European weather conditions should a late-season shift be necessary.
Looking ahead, Formula 1 aims to present a conventional 2027 calendar in the autumn of 2026, targeting 24 Grands Prix. Alternative plans are already in place should the Middle East situation remain unresolved by the end of the year.
The sport’s global expansion continues, with the Madrid Grand Prix set to debut on September 11-13, 2026, on a new semi-permanent street circuit at the IFEMA exhibition centre. This event will take place after the summer break.
Domenicali also highlighted the competitive evolution of the 2026 season. While Mercedes initially held a significant advantage, other teams like Red Bull and Ferrari have closed the gap, leading to a closely contested championship.
He dismissed early season predictions of a decided championship, noting that multiple teams and drivers are now capable of fighting for victories. As of mid-August, Andrea Kimi Antonelli leads the drivers’ championship for Mercedes, with Lewis Hamilton in second for Ferrari.
Regarding broadcast presentation, Domenicali does not believe displaying live battery-state information is necessary. He cited a conversation with George Lucas, suggesting fans are primarily captivated by on-track action and overtaking battles, rather than technical data.
Discussions for the next generation of technical regulations are underway, with the FIA holding final authority. Domenicali advocates for simpler cars, sustainable fuel, and a hybrid component, allowing drivers to consistently push to the limit.
The current regulatory cycle is scheduled until 2031, though an earlier change is possible if framework conditions are clarified. Formula 1 remains committed to its 2030 carbon neutrality target, focusing on logistics and sustainable aviation fuel, as racing car emissions constitute a minor percentage of the overall footprint.
Commercially, Formula 1 is experiencing unprecedented strength, attracting more partners and seeing team values increase rapidly. Domenicali stated that this growth model is being studied by other major sporting organisations.
Growth markets include the United States and a resurgent Europe. Domenicali also sees potential in China and hinted at renewed opportunities for a German Grand Prix, with discussions involving Hockenheim.
‘We are in a very good situation. We have the highest audience figures ever. The fans recognise the success of our measures in all areas. Practically all races are sold out. Our foundation is robust. The numbers are increasing and we are finding more and more new fans.’
