In recent days, media specialized (or not) in motor sports have leaked, as every year, a calendar of the 2022 season of the Formula 1 world championship. A non-final version since the FIA will not decide before its 3e World Congress of the Year, scheduled for October 15. Last year, moreover, the pipes had proved to be pierced since the first calendars for the 2021 season were broadcast far from the final version. No wonder given the health context.
This time, two indiscretions marked the eyes and challenged: the disappearance of the French Grand Prix and the holding of the Monaco Grand Prix over four days instead of three. This Wednesday, the CEO. of Formula One Group and F1 boss Stefano Domenicali got his feet wet during an interview broadcast on the American channel CNN.
Thursday day reinvented?
Laconic “Yes”, he confirmed that the Castellet circuit would be on the program. Logical finally, since F1 and the GP of France are linked by contract until 2023.
As for Monaco, he was more talkative: “Monaco will take place over three days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, directly, instead of Thursday – break on Friday – then Saturday and Sunday”. Thus announcing the end of a tradition dating back to the first world championship, in 1950. As Ascension Thursday is a public holiday, Monaco took the opportunity to run the single-seaters. Except that perfection is in the detail. And Stefano Domenicali omits a major one.
Because if free practice, qualifying and lessons are now condensed over three days, the most legendary circuit in the world will remain well exploited over four days. The reason is simple. As the Automobile Club de Monaco reminds us, the Principality does not only host F1 but also Regional Formula by Alpine, Porsche Supercup and Formula 2. The track will therefore not be deserted on Thursday.
While the majority of the drivers in the main discipline have their home in Monaco, the organizers can also imagine bringing F1 passion to life from Thursday through its dedicated sessions or media meetings.
In short, business to follow, but, F1 or not, cars will run for four days on the Monegasque withers in 2022. With the return that we are experiencing in terms of tourism and business.