Monza’s F1 Legacy Secured: What the 2031 Extension Means for the Future of the Italian Grand Prix

Formula 1 has confirmed that the Italian Grand Prix will remain at the iconic Autodromo Nazionale Monza until 2031, following a new six-year extension to the existing agreement. This extension ensures that Monza, known as the Temple of Speed, will continue to be a central fixture on the F1 calendar for many more years, solidifying its position as one of the most important and historic venues in motorsport.

Monza: A Track with Rich History and Passion

Since its opening in 1922, Monza has hosted an F1 Grand Prix every year, except for 1980, when the track underwent renovations. It is one of the oldest and most beloved circuits in the world, renowned for its speed and challenging layout. Located just north-east of Milan, Monza’s 5.8-kilometer track is one of the fastest on the F1 calendar, with drivers on full throttle for over 80% of the lap.

The Italian Grand Prix has always been a highlight of the season, attracting huge crowds of passionate fans, known as Tifosi, who come to cheer on Ferrari. This year, the 2024 Italian Grand Prix saw a record-breaking attendance of 335,000 fans over the weekend, underscoring the continued importance of Monza in the F1 calendar. The unique atmosphere and vibrant support from the Tifosi make Monza one of the most thrilling races of the year.

Recent Upgrades and Future Plans

The agreement comes on the back of significant upgrades to the Monza circuit in preparation for the 2024 Grand Prix, ensuring the track remains at the forefront of modern F1 racing standards. These improvements include resurfacing the track, enhanced underpasses for safety, and other infrastructure upgrades to ensure the venue remains competitive and safe for drivers and fans alike.

In addition to these upgrades, further investments are planned for the future, particularly in enhancing the quality and quantity of hospitality offerings to meet the demands of modern F1. Angelo Sticchi Damiani, President of the Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI), emphasized the importance of these improvements, noting that Monza is not only the oldest track in the world to host a World Championship race but also the longest-running event on the calendar. This new deal will help ensure Monza keeps up with the evolving standards of Formula 1.

A Key Moment for Formula 1 in Italy

The Italian Grand Prix has been a key part of F1’s growth in Italy, with the sport seeing strong viewership and increasing social media engagement in the country. In 2023, Italy saw a cumulative TV audience of 183.3 million, and social media followers grew by 16% compared to the previous year. The Italian Grand Prix’s appeal is undeniable, and the continued presence of the race in Monza reflects the increasing popularity and success of F1 in the region.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, expressed his delight over the extension, saying, “Monza is at the very heart of Formula 1 history, and the atmosphere each year is unique as the Tifosi gather in huge numbers to cheer on Ferrari and the drivers.” He also thanked the Italian government and the Lombardy Region for their ongoing support and investment in the track.

The Legacy of Monza and F1’s Future

The Italian Grand Prix is not only a major event for Ferrari fans but a highlight for all F1 followers, with legends like Alberto Ascari, Juan Manuel Fangio, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher having etched their names into the history of the race. Current stars like Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly, and Max Verstappen have all won at Monza, cementing its status as a race that defines the sport.

As the 2025 Italian Grand Prix approaches, with its scheduled dates of 5-7 September 2025, Monza will continue to stand as a pillar of F1, blending a rich legacy with modern upgrades to remain one of the most thrilling and historic tracks on the calendar for the foreseeable future.