The Belgian Grand Prix’s Formulation One future after Sunday’s race is but to be determined however experiences of its demise could also be untimely, the game’s chief govt Stefano Domenicali indicated on Wednesday.
The 2023 calendar is because of be revealed in October and is about to characteristic a file 24 races, with a query mark hanging over historic tracks similar to Belgium’s race at Spa-Francorchamps.
1 Associated
Germany has misplaced its grand prix and France might observe, whereas even Monaco’s continuation because the showcase race has been the topic of hypothesis amid discuss of alternation.
Requested throughout a video name with reporters on Wednesday concerning the stability between races held in Europe and around the globe, and whether or not this yr might see the final Belgian Grand Prix, Domenicali replied: “I noticed some remark [about] one thing on me saying that Belgium can be the final yr. I might be prudent on that remark. Very prudent.”
Domenicali stated F1 needed a balanced mixture of a 3rd in Europe, a 3rd within the Far East and the others in America and Center East, the game’s most profitable area.
“In fact, we’re speaking a few enterprise the place investments, monetary contributions are crucial however we have now all the time stated that the normal races, races that we all know can not deliver the cash that the others are bringing, have a full respect from us,” he added.
“You will notice that this might be revered additionally sooner or later. With Belgium, discussions are nonetheless on.
“We’re in Spa this weekend so you will note them [the local promoters] numerous instances in my workplace.”
Domenicali additionally indicated that Germany’s prospects of internet hosting a race once more may very well be boosted if, as anticipated, Audi and Porsche be a part of Mercedes on the beginning grid.
The nation, which hosted two races a yr on the peak of house hero Michael Schumacher’s dominance with Ferrari, final had a grand prix at Hockenheim in 2019.
“We actually hope that Germany will be again across the desk,” Domenicali stated.
“However one factor is to say we wish to have the grand prix, the opposite factor is to placed on the desk the issues which are wanted to debate concerning the grand prix.
“Hopefully quickly, with one thing that would occur quickly, they’ll have a unique scenario to debate with us.”
Porsche and Audi are anticipated to announce entries to Formulation One, after the game authorized new engine guidelines for 2026.
Domenicali went to South Africa in June to debate the potential for the nation’s Kyalami circuit returning to the F1 calendar in 2023, however the Italian stated these talks remained ongoing.
“We wish to have a race in Africa and in the present day the probably place is South Africa,” he stated.
“What we’re searching for are very strong and clear long-term commitments, as a result of we can’t be there for one yr after which sport over.
“It is a scenario that’s taking time. I feel we’re going to make clear this case within the subsequent days however for certain the dedication to be in Africa is one thing that we wish to take, however we wish to take it proper.”
He stated the 2024 calendar would look very completely different as a consequence of an early-season conflict with Ramadan, affecting the scheduling of the present opening Center Japanese races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Australia is prone to return then to the opening slot it beforehand held.