ACI President Angelo Sticchi Damiani has detailed the recent upgrades to the historic Autodromo Nazionale Monza. While also emphasizing the need for further improvements to maintain its status as a premier Formula 1 venue.
Monza, which is set to host Formula 1 races until 2025, faces uncertainty about its long-term future due to the need for facility enhancements. Last year, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali highlighted the necessity for Monza to modernize its infrastructure to secure a contract extension beyond 2025.
Earlier this year, Monza embarked on a €21 million reconstruction project to update various track facilities. This included refurbishing the kerbs, resurfacing the track, upgrading the pit lane. Renewing three underpasses, and constructing a fourth underpass at the Vedano entrance avenue. The track received FIA homologation on August 5, confirming its readiness to host the final European race of the 2024 F1 season at the end of August and early September.
At the reopening event, Damiani addressed future plans for the circuit, focusing on further modernization to enhance the spectator experience. He remarked, “We have dated removable grandstands made of tubular steel. Our goal is to develop grandstands that double as hospitality areas with dining facilities, air conditioning. And skyboxes for premium experiences, as Monza faces increasing competition.”
Damiani also highlighted plans to create a permanent facility above the pits, replacing the current temporary structure used during the Grand Prix. “Currently, we use a tent structure for the paddock club. Which costs several hundred thousand euros to assemble and disassemble each year. We propose building a permanent and attractive cover to provide a dedicated paddock club space for Formula 1.”
He under scored the significance of Monza’s legacy, stating, “Formula 1 is Monza, and Monza is Formula 1. It is the oldest track where a Grand Prix is still held. Our modernisation efforts aim to preserve this heritage while offering spectators all the comforts they expect.”
With these planned upgrades, Monza aims to reinforce its iconic status and continue attracting fans and competitors alike in the evolving landscape of Formula 1 racing.
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