Formula 1 could once again have a German Grand Prix on its calendar, with CEO Stefano Domenicali suggesting that discussions around bringing the historic event back are gaining momentum. Germany has not hosted an official F1 race since 2019, although the Nürburgring featured on the 2020 calendar as part of the COVID-affected season. The country remains closely connected to F1 through major manufacturers, with Mercedes and Audi having strong links to the championship. Audi’s arrival as a works team has further strengthened Germany’s relevance to the sport.
Domenicali pointed towards these factors when discussing a possible comeback. “With regard to the potential, we don’t have to forget that we have Audi stepping into the business. We have big partners that have their home base in Germany,” he said.He also revealed that Germany wants F1 to consider a return in the medium term, adding that the country was once “one of the most important markets for F1.”
Domenicali believes the changing situation could create fresh opportunities, particularly commercially. “The new situation in Germany is starting to move in the direction that I see potentially in the future, being a very interesting market,” he said.However, he stressed that a return is not guaranteed, describing it as a developing discussion rather than a confirmed addition to the calendar.
“Hockenheim contacted us”: Stefano Domenicali confirms initial talks over German Grand Prix return
Formula 1 has taken another step towards a possible return to Hockenheim, with CEO Stefano Domenicali confirming that contact has been re-established with the German circuit. Hockenheim last hosted the German Grand Prix in 2019, and the country has since been absent from the F1 calendar apart from the Nürburgring’s 2020 Eifel Grand Prix. Domenicali revealed that discussions are now underway over a potential long-term comeback, although there is no confirmed race date yet.
Domenicali indicated that Germany’s renewed importance to Formula 1 has helped bring the possibility back into focus. “We’re seeing that Europe is also continuing to grow,” he said, adding, “It’s becoming an important market again. The numbers are right.” He also confirmed that Hockenheim itself had initiated contact with Formula 1, “Hockenheim contacted us. Initial talks have taken place.” While the circuit is already undergoing modernisation, Domenicali stressed that further spending would be required to stage an F1 event, saying, “They are currently modernising the racetrack. However, if they are talking about a possible Formula 1 event, investment is necessary.”
