"Formula 1 is Monza," claims ACI President as he reflects on the track's recent reconstruction

ACI President Angelo Sticchi Damiani explained the changes that the fabled Autodromo Nazionale Monza has gone through recently, but he also revealed that futher tweaks will be necessary to keep up with other circuits.

The iconic Autodromo Nazionale Monza has a contract to host an F1 race through to 2025, but the future of the race is uncertain given the facilities of the track. During last year’s Italian Grand Prix, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali stressed the need for Monza to upgrade its facilities if it wants to secure a contract extension.

The track announced earlier this year that it has commenced the €21 million reconstruction work that will see the Monza circuit upgrade many of the facilities.

On the 5th of August, the Autodromo di Nazionale Monza received the homologation from the FIA, which means that it is ready to host the last race of the European leg of the 2024 F1 season at the end of August and early September.

The reconstruction work that took place in the past months included the refurbishment of the kerbs, track resurfacement, pit lane, and the renewal of three underpasses plus the construction of a fourth at the Vedano entrance avenue, and the modernization work will continue beyond September.

Speaking during the reopening event, ACI President Angelo Sticchi Damiani noted that the circuit in intent on updating the grandstands in the near future: “We have dated removable grandstands, made of tubular steel.

“Over time, we must aim to create grandstands that also serve as hospitality areas with dining facilities, air conditioning, and some with skyboxes offering even higher quality treatment, because this is where Monza faces competition.”

“Monza will win its battle with modernization interventions to offer spectators all comforts. Spectators come to Monza to experience this atmosphere and be not just spectators but participants in a great event.”

Expanding on the planned changes, Damiani said that they want to create a permanent facility above the pits which could play host to the paddock club.

“Today, above the pits, there is a frame on which a tent is mounted for the Grand Prix. Assembling and disassembling it each time costs several hundred thousand euros, and we use it one week a year. The proposal is to create a permanent and attractive cover to give Formula 1 a space to use as a paddock club.”

“We want to improve the quality of this facility. Formula 1 is Monza, and Monza is Formula 1. It is the oldest facility where a GP is still held.”