The CEO is not concerned that conflicts will impact the F1 season.
"At this moment, we haven't received any such signal."
Formula 1 has a contingency plan in case the conflicts in the Middle East escalate further in 2025. Recently, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko mentioned that events, including Formula 1, continue amidst the intensifying conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, and Iran. Baku, along with Qatar and Abu Dhabi, is situated close to these conflict zones, leading to concerns that Formula 1 may be unable to travel to these locations in the latter part of this season.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed during a visit to Downing Street that commenting on the situation is quite challenging. Following Iran's recent attack on a U.S. airbase in Qatar, nearby airline operations faced disruptions. Nevertheless, Domenicali does not perceive a significant risk that Grand Prix races will need to be canceled.
"So far, we don’t have this kind of signal, and we're sincerely hoping that it won’t come to that," stated the Italian. "I prefer not to contemplate it, especially for the broader context and not just for the sake of racing. We do have a plan in place should it become necessary, but I hope it never reaches that point."
If races are indeed canceled, finding alternative venues in Europe might prove challenging due to weather conditions. "Europe is quite large," Domenicali remarked. "Some regions experience fairly mild temperatures. We certainly cannot host events where snow is possible," he added with a smile. "However, as I've mentioned, I'm not even considering that possibility. We are not at all concerned that such issues will impact the championship."
Other articles
CEO claims Silverstone should retain the F1 race 'indefinitely'
Formula 1 | Silverstone is expected to retain its Formula 1 race without any problems - possibly indefinitely. The British GP location was the site of the inaugural modern F1 event.
Schumacher forecasts the conclusion of Tsunoda's F1 career.
Formula 1 | Yuki Tsunoda's aspiration to move up to the Red Bull seat has set the stage for his departure from Formula 1. This is the opinion of former F1 driver Ralf (…)
Gasly: Silverstone is least suitable for our car.
Alpine team is last in the Constructors' Championship, fifteen points behind their nearest rivals, Sauber. According to Pierre Gasly, the Enstone team will not be able to reverse their negative trend at Silverstone.
Hajar on the challenges of being Verstappen's teammate
At Silverstone, Isaac Hadjara was asked what would be the hardest for him if he became Max Verstappen's teammate...
Doornbos: I am completely certain about the clauses.
Formula 1 | A well-regarded Formula 1 broadcaster suggests that Max Verstappen has now shown interest in the prospect of moving to Mercedes next year. According to a report from Sky (…)
Oscar Piastrei: I always aim for victory
Oscar Piastri is confident that rumors of a team change don't distract Max Verstappen from fighting for race wins...
The CEO is not concerned that conflicts will impact the F1 season.
Formula 1 has a contingency plan in place should conflicts in the Middle East escalate further in 2025. Recently, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko remarked (…)