Season opener in Bahrain, second stop in Saudi Arabia, last race in Abu Dhabi and in between a guest appearance in Azerbaijan: That Formula 1 does not shy away from choosing the places that make it onto the calendar, even in countries with some It is well known that less tolerant interpretations of the law come to a halt. F1 boss Stefano Domenicali has now commented on the controversial organizers, among other things, and commented on an allegation.
In an interview with “Sport Bild” Domenicali “100 percent” denies the assertion that Formula 1 only has money in mind when selecting the race organizers and therefore turns a blind eye to the subject of human rights.
Although the financial aspect is of course important, it is important that “the overall package” is right, says the Italian, who adds: “If we only looked at our account, the calendar would definitely look different.” For example, a greater focus on the US market would make sense, and Domenicali also specifically mentions the end of the Russian Grand Prix as a result of the attack on Ukraine.
With the races in Saudi Arabia and Co., they also want to “drive change forward,” said the 57-year-old. Effects are not to be expected suddenly, but one notices that something is happening. “We ensure the spotlight in which the hosts want to present themselves well. There have already been initial successes. Women have been allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia for four years,” explains Domenicali.
Basically, you want to convey “the right values”. “We have a role model function that we have to fulfill,” Domenicali clarifies.
“If I don’t make a call myself, I see and hear little from Germany”
The fact that the focus caused by F1 can have positive effects and bring grievances to the fore cannot be denied, and that Domenicali’s argument has a very bland aftertaste, especially for die-hard fans of the premier class of motorsport, cannot be dismissed out of hand .
Especially the sometimes very manageable mood and the old traditional routes are not a few supporters bitterly. Frustration, for which Domenicali shows understanding, but which he ultimately counters quite rudely. “I’ll never in my life make everyone happy. That’s why I’m not even trying,” said the Italian.
It is also an express broadside for the German organizers. “If I don’t make a call myself, I don’t see or hear much from Germany. They talk, talk, talk, but in the end you need facts. It’s a mystery to me how you can’t build a business around a Grand Prix these days,” is the harsh verdict.
F1 cannot “cover all the costs” just to stop in Germany. As soon as a solution is found, a race in the Federal Republic will definitely be an issue again.