Formula 1 has announced that the Italian Grand Prix will remain on the calendar until.... R

Formula 1 has announced that the Italian Grand Prix will remain on the calendar until 2031 inclusive as part of a new six-year extension to the existing agreement, which runs through 2025.

Formula 1 has confirmed that the Italian Grand Prix will remain part of the championship calendar through 2031, following the announcement of a six-year extension to the current agreement, which was originally set to expire in 2025. This new deal comes after a series of significant upgrades to the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, ensuring the continued iconic presence of the race in the sport’s lineup. Monza, often referred to as “The Temple of Speed,” is one of the most historic and beloved circuits in Formula 1, having hosted a Grand Prix every year since the inaugural World Championship season in 1950, with the sole exception of 1980 when the track was closed for renovations.

Monza, situated just outside Milan, is renowned for its high-speed layout, with drivers spending roughly 80% of the lap at full throttle. The 5.8-kilometer circuit is known for its long straights and fast corners, making it one of the fastest tracks on the Formula 1 calendar. The Italian Grand Prix is not only one of the most prestigious races in the sport but also one that attracts a passionate and immense crowd. The 2024 edition of the race saw an impressive 335,000 spectators over the weekend, who witnessed Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc cross the finish line.

One of the most notable achievements at Monza came in 2020 when Lewis Hamilton set the record for the fastest-ever Formula 1 lap in terms of average speed. He secured pole position for the 2020 Italian Grand Prix with an extraordinary qualifying time of 1 minute 18.887 seconds, achieving an average speed of 264.362 km/h. This further cemented the track’s reputation for speed and precision. Over the years, the circuit has seen numerous racing legends triumph, including figures like Alberto Ascari, Juan Manuel Fangio, Sir Stirling Moss, Jackie Stewart, Niki Lauda, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher. Today, active drivers such as Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly, and Max Verstappen are part of the list of Monza Grand Prix winners.

Formula 1 has seen a surge in popularity in Italy, as evidenced by the sport’s growing viewership and fan engagement in the country. The Italian audience reached a cumulative total of 183.3 million viewers in 2023. Additionally, Formula 1’s social media presence in Italy grew by 16% during the last season, further highlighting the sport’s ever-increasing influence. These figures underscore the enduring appeal of both Formula 1 and the Italian Grand Prix, making it a central fixture of the sport.

The 2025 edition of the Italian Grand Prix will take place from September 5-7, 2025, marking the first race under the new extended agreement. Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, expressed his excitement about the deal, emphasizing Monza’s central role in the history of Formula 1 and the unique atmosphere created by the passionate Tifosi fans who turn up in large numbers to support Ferrari. Domenicali also praised the ongoing commitment to the track’s future, citing recent infrastructure upgrades and further planned investments as a strong signal of long-term plans for Formula 1’s growth in Italy. He thanked the Italian government, the Lombardy region, and the Automobile Club d’Italia for their contributions to the sport’s development in the country.

Angelo Sticchi Damiani, President of the Automobile Club d’Italia, also expressed his satisfaction with the contract extension, noting the significant role of Italian institutions in securing the race’s future at Monza. He acknowledged the valuable support from the Italian government and the Lombardy Region, whose investments in the circuit’s infrastructure have helped enhance the fan experience. Sticchi Damiani also highlighted that the recent track resurfacing and safety improvements reflect the modern demands of Formula 1, and there is ongoing work to further upgrade the quality and variety of hospitality offerings at the circuit in time for the 2025 season.

Monza is not only the oldest track to have hosted a World Championship race, but it is also the longest-running event on the Formula 1 calendar. While its historical significance is immense, the ongoing investments in infrastructure show that the future of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza will continue to evolve to meet the growing expectations of both fans and the sport itself. The continued presence of the Italian Grand Prix on the calendar is a testament to the deep-rooted relationship between Formula 1 and Italy, both of which will remain intertwined for many years to come.