With the completion of the modernization works, l'Monza racetrack is preparing to face the future of Formula 1 with renewed optimism. The works, which began in January 2024, saw the total resurfacing of the track asphalt, the pit lane and the hydraulic works, together with the modernization of three underpasses and the construction of a new one. These interventions are part of a broader redevelopment project necessary to guarantee the presence of the Italian Grand Prix in the Formula 1 calendar beyond 2025, when the current contract expires. On the day of the reopening of the racetrack, the president of ACI Sport, Angelo Sticchi Damiani, spoke to the microphones of Sky, underlining the importance of the work just completed and outlining the future of Monza and Imola in the context of an increasingly crowded Formula 1 calendar.
The challenge of the Future: Monza and Imola in the balance
“The works on the track guarantee us better performance and longer life of the asphalt. We want this racetrack to be modern and that he does not live a single week in the year. Two GPs in Italy after 2026? The dream has come true, let's hope it continues“, declared Sticchi Damiani.
The president of ACI Sport highlighted the difficulty of maintaining two grand prix in Italy, in a calendar that already has 24 races and which struggles to satisfy all requests. While America hosts three GPs, Italy must work hard to preserve both its historic stages, Monza and Imola. “We will certainly still have Imola and Monza together on the calendar because there is still a year left on the contract for Imola. Then there was talk during the flood and a little later about recovering the 2023 edition in 2026. This is the first objective. Once the contract for Monza is defined and closed, we will concentrate and work body and soul for Imola." added Sticchi Damiani.
The objective is clear: to ensure the renewal of Monza's contract and, subsequently, do everything possible to maintain it as well Imola in the Formula 1 calendar. However, Sticchi Damiani does not hide the difficulties: “Having 2 Grands Prix in Italy is a dream. We know it's a dream and we want it to continue, but it always remains a dream." The words of the president of ACI reflect a necessary realism in a complex situation, where international competition is fierce and resources must be managed carefully.
Monza: Not just the track, but experiences for the fans
For the renewal beyond 2025, resurfacing the track will not be enough: interventions on the facilities of the facility and on the fan experience will be necessary. Sticchi Damiani already has a detailed plan in mind: "At least the first six grandstands will be built by next year's GP and all the others by 2026, equipping the grandstands with catering services, air conditioning and in some cases with skyboxes." The intention is clear: to respond to the requests of Formula 1 and improve the offer for fans, making Monza a cutting-edge place from all points of view.
In the meantime, the Brianza track is preparing for the Italian Grand Prix, which will take place from 30 August to 1 September 2024. It will be a crucial opportunity to show the progress made and convince Formula 1 of the validity of the modernization project. The future of Monza and Imola is still uncertain, but with commitment and vision, Italy hopes to continue hosting two rounds in the Formula 1 world championship.
