F1 News
This is how Domenicali defended the 2024 F1 calendar criticism
Stefano Domenicali had to once again defend the ever-growing Formula 1 calendar after Lando Norris said the current format was 'Not sustainable' at the Chinese Grand Prix.
The 2024 F1 calendar is the biggest in the history of the sport. With 30 races in total, (24 rounds and six sprint events) It's clear to see why team personnel and drivers have criticised the schedule due to their increased workload going forward.
Domenicali, however, insists that the calendar must be expanded in order to provide fans with top-quality motor racing. In a conversation with Sky Sports, the F1 CEO said: "I think 24 races is better than 12."
Domenicali dismisses complaints
The Italian continued: “I speak with them [the drivers] - if you want to drive, you can drive every day, if you don't want to drive in Formula 1, it’s not compulsory. It’s a matter of respect for the fans. They want to see them racing. It's something that we have, the responsibility of all our fans, our partners, our promoters, our sponsors, our broadcasters - everyone.
“The magic of the sport we live in is because we need heroes that need to enjoy what they're doing, and I'm sure that they are enjoying it. I think 24 is an optimal number with the events we have so far," added the Italian.
“The good news this year, I took it as a responsibility from the teams and to the promoter to announce the calendar (For 2025) much earlier than we normally do in order for everyone to be ready. That’s been another step in the direction of trying to regionalise the calendar. We cannot do it completely but I think that we made the right step, so [I'm] very happy with that.”
The former Ferrari team principal continues to divide opinion, prioritising the experience of fans. Will the calendar continue to be expanded? Time will tell. Let us know in the poll below whether you think 24 races is on the limit.