Not too late to save Monza GP, says Italian motorsport chief
Italy's motorsport boss said on Tuesday that he was hopeful Monza could still put together a deal to save the Italian Grand Prix, as the country's prime minster was poised to get involved in discussions.
Photo by: Alex Galli
With Monza's current race deal running out at the end of next year, there has been little progress in sorting out a contract extension amid ongoing scepticism from Bernie Ecclestone that the race can be saved.
Those delays have prompted the Formula 1 supremo to say several times that he was doubtful the event will remain on the calendar.
As recently as the Belgian GP, Ecclestone said: "I don't know about Monza at the moment. I have got meetings there in September, so we will see.
"I hope we don't lose it, but I think there is a good chance we will."
Ongoing optimism
During a press conference in Milan on Tuesday attended by senior race figures, Angelo Sticchi Damiani, the boss of Italian motorsport federation, the ACI, said he still had reason to believe matters could move forwards.
"Monza must overcome the situation that we all know well," said Sticchi Damiani. "I think with a bit of optimism, there are opportunities for this to happen.
"The important thing is that we all work together: knowing that there is interest from all levels of the government – from the [national] government to that of the Lombardy Region, which has demonstrated that in practical terms. And let's not forget the towns of Milan and Monza.
"Now the good intentions must be translated into concrete action."
Government help
The Lombardy Region has offered assistance in relation to a revamp of the infrastructure, but it cannot provide any financial help in terms of the race hosting fee.
However, Italian prime minister Matteo Renzi is set to attend this weekend's race at Monza and is likely to join in discussions with Ecclestone about how to save the event.
Ecclestone has been clear for some time that he is not chasing a big money deal – but just wants Italy to pay the same as other European venues.
"They don't have to give any more than other people," explained Ecclestone. "We just want the same."
Interview by Franco Nugnes
VIDEO: Check out Lewis Hamilton & Sir Stirling Moss at Monza in Inside GP
Be part of Motorsport community
Join the conversationShare Or Save This Story
Wolff: Mercedes can't just keep living off F1 "bright spots"
Sargeant baffled about not being told of illegal F1 safety car overtake
Why F1 2026 worst-case fears could be key to new rules success
How rain and strategy spelled disaster for Ferrari in WEC Imola 6 Hours
China F1 upgrades in full, from tweaked headrests to new floors
Wolff: Mercedes can't just keep living off F1 "bright spots"
Pourchaire eager for more IndyCar after “amazing” debut in Long Beach
Chinese Grand Prix Driver Ratings 2024
Why Verstappen's China F1 win was a sideshow to the real battle
How the pursuit of marginal F1 gains caused Sauber's pitstop stumbles
The short-term pain that hides a very real Williams improvement
Subscribe and access Motorsport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments