Monza Worried About its F1 Future Beyond 2019

It has transpired that the future of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza has been placed in further doubt. This revelation comes after a drop in ticket sales for this season’s F1 race. The current contract with the venue is set to expire after the 2019 season. Now, there are concerns that a new deal will be too expensive to sign.

Monza has been a long-time presence in Formula 1’s history. This year’s race is the 68th running at the track. Unfortunately, inspite of Ferrari’s push back towards a championship challenge, ticket sales have dropped at the legendary circuit.

Angelo Sticchi Damiani, president of the Automobile Club d’Italia is concerned over its future. He said, “A year ago Vettel had gone on holiday as the world [championship] leader, now he is in the role of pursuer. My wish is the exact opposite of what happened a year ago, when from Monza onwards Mercedes took off.”

Liberty Media, F1’s owners, has spoken about its desires to reduce the costs of hosting races. Germany’s future is in major doubt, while there are still question marks over the future of the British Grand Prix. Damiani says costs must come down in order for the circuit to continue hosting F1 races.

“We closed last year’s race with a strong loss, and the 2018 budget will not be different either,” he said. “It is clear that such a situation is not sustainable in the long term. The ACI is ready to do its part, but not under any conditions. [Chase] Carey has always told me that an F1 without Monza is unthinkable, and in four years it will celebrate its centenary. We agree on that, but we must also deal in facts.”

Will the ‘Temple of Speed’ prevail or will financial issues ruin everything.