Formula 1 to race in Monza until 2031 with new six-year extension

Formula 1 to Race in Monza Until 2031 with New Six-Year Extension

In a move that solidifies the future of motorsport’s most iconic race tracks, Formula 1 has announced a significant new agreement that will see the Italian Grand Prix continue to be staged at the legendary Autodromo Nazionale Monza until 2031. This six-year extension underlines the enduring importance of Monza as a central fixture in the sport’s calendar and reflects the deep connection between F1 and its passionate Italian fanbase.

Monza, which first hosted a Formula 1 race in 1950, has earned its reputation as one of the most historic and exhilarating venues in global motorsport. Known as the “Temple of Speed,” the track’s unique blend of high-speed straights and challenging corners has made it a driver and fan favorite. It has witnessed countless memorable moments, from classic battles to dramatic crashes, cementing its status as a cornerstone of the F1 season.

The deal, announced jointly by Formula 1, the Italian motorsport federation (ACI), and the track’s management, extends Monza’s presence on the calendar for at least another decade. Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, praised the agreement, stating, “Monza is not just a race, it’s a celebration of motorsport history. It embodies the passion and heritage of Formula 1, and we are delighted to extend our relationship with this iconic track. The Italian Grand Prix is a special event that continues to captivate audiences around the world.”

The extension comes amid a backdrop of growing enthusiasm for Formula 1 in Italy, fueled in part by the resurgence of local drivers like Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and the continued presence of the Scuderia team, which has its roots deeply intertwined with the Monza circuit. The historic backdrop of Monza adds a unique layer of spectacle, where thousands of fans clad in Ferrari red create a sea of color that transforms the event into an unparalleled atmosphere of excitement and loyalty.

Monza’s status as a crowd-puller was underscored by the strong attendance and viewership figures in recent years, highlighting its undiminished appeal. The new deal also signals a commitment to updating and enhancing the infrastructure to meet modern F1 standards, ensuring that Monza remains a safe, competitive, and state-of-the-art venue. This commitment reinforces the circuit’s role not just as a relic of motorsport history but as a forward-looking venue capable of hosting the sport’s technological innovations.

A long-term extension at Monza also sends a positive signal to other classic circuits facing uncertainty regarding their future on the F1 calendar. It underscores the sport’s recognition of its heritage and the deep-rooted relationships that have helped build its global following.

As the 2024 season draws to a close, the anticipation for next year’s Italian Grand Prix will be all the more palpable, knowing that Monza’s storied tradition will continue to thrill fans for years to come. The passion, the speed, and the unforgettable sound of Formula 1 engines roaring through the Lombardy woods will remain an integral part of the sport’s future, sustaining its legacy and ensuring that the “Temple of Speed” continues to live up to its legendary status.

With Monza secured until 2031, Formula 1 reaffirms its commitment to honoring the past while racing toward the future, offering fans the unforgettable blend of history and innovation that the sport is celebrated for.